The night had grown darker on the outskirts of South City, inside an old and rustic mansion. Ezra paced restlessly in the living room with his hands clasped behind his back, clearly anxious.
To confront Dustin and his gang, he had enlisted a master from the Mystic Arts Order, someone even more powerful than Theodore, although slightly eccentric and unpredictable.
This man had a sadistic side, as seen by the three unfortunate women who had left his presence battered and on the verge of death.
Ezra didn’t tend to show unnecessary sympathy, but appeasing this man with a twisted personality proved to be quite a challenge. The threat to his life loomed large if he accidentally provoked him.
The door squeaked open, revealing a thin figure in a black robe with a satisfied grin. In the adjoining room, there was a horrifying scene: a woman bound and bloodied, her life cruelly taken from her.
Ezra turned away in shock. The master, Caspian Yuletide, sauntered out, visibly content. Ezra cautiously approached and asked, “Sir Yuletide, are you satisfied with the results?”
Caspian replied, taking a seat leisurely, “Not bad at all. These three individuals met my expectations. Tonight has been quite enjoyable, and you played your role well.”
Ezra quickly poured a cup of tea for Caspian. With a forced smile, he said, ” Sir Yuletide, about the favor I requested from you, any progress?”
Caspian responded nonchalantly, “I’ve assigned my disciples to the task, and it should be resolved soon.”
Ezra breathed a sigh of relief. “That’s great to hear.”
Caspian added casually, “Oh, by the way, we have a high-ranking member from the Mystic Arts Order visiting Oakvale soon.
“Prepare in advance and find suitable accommodations for this individual. If all goes well, your family will receive the protection of the Mystic Arts Order. IT
Ezra exclaimed with joy, “That’s fantastic! Thank you, Sir Yuletide!”
The Mystic Arts Order was one of the three major forces in the martial world, alongside the Sword Union and the Celestial Alliance.
They had many skilled experts, and their influence was so significant that they had direct access to the King. Even the four ancient houses of Oakvale were nothing to the Mystic Arts Order.
If the Swanson family could get their protection, they would have a powerful ally on their side.
Caspian cautioned, “Don’t get too excited. This individual has quite a temper. You better be careful when serving them. If you provoke them, not even god can save you.”
Ezra nodded earnestly. “Understood. We’ll ensure this person is pleased and content, no matter the cost!”
Caspian nodded in approval, “Good, you better do well.”
As they chatted, the door creaked open again, and a shadowy figure entered, carrying a bundle that dripped dark red droplets with every step. Ezra tensed at the sight.
Caspian sipped his tea, unfazed by the unfolding events. “No need to be alarmed; it should be my disciple returning.”
With a thud, the figure tossed the bundled package into the room.
