Greatest Legacy of the Magus Universe

While Liriel had settled down in The Cage, posing as Silver Vess, Adam and Kael had begun wandering the city, gathering crucial intel.

Just like any other city, there were several districts in Blackshore.

There was the Darkfang Docks, the lifeline of the city. Then, there was the Floating Marketplace where one could purchase anything—and anyone—as long as they had money.

The Warrens were the sprawling maze of lawless slums, consisting of shanties and crumbling tenements. They were home to beggars, thieves, and the city’s lowest scum.

The center of the city was where the Dark Spire was located. It was the place where the city’s loose council operated out of. As such, it was the most well-guarded place in the entire city.

Finally, there was the Ember Heights district. It was the neighborhood surrounding the Dark Spire. It was the only part of Blackshore resembling civilization.

This wealthy quarter was home to corrupt merchants, exiled nobles, and high-ranking criminals who had grown rich from the city’s illicit trade.

Lavish mansions stood side by side with gambling dens, high-class brothels, and herbalist workshops. While outwardly it might appear elegant, betrayal and corruption ran deep behind every polished door.

Many members of the loose council resided here—including Silver Vess—guarded by mercenary companies and deadly bodyguards.

This was the district that Adam and Kael had chosen first for their investigation. It was also convenient for them since now they were Silver Vess’ new bodyguards.

Thus, it wouldn’t be suspicious if they suddenly arrived at her house in Ember Height, considering they had solid proof of formally coming into an employment contract with her.

Thier proof? None other than all the slaves and Magi employed by Silver Vess at The Cage.

Adam’s mission was simple: disrupt Blackshore’s defenses, spread disinformation, and cripple its leadership. Thus, making it easier for the main forces of Ravenfell to strike.

Now that he and his team had infiltrated the city, it was time for them to gather intel.

And what better place to gather information than an establishment where liquor flowed freely, narcotics changed hands with ease, and desire walked openly?

Standing before the grand entrance of the greatest pleasure house in Ember Heights, Kael couldn’t help but glance at Adam with a dubious look on his face.

”Why… are we here?”

Adam patted the man’s back and grinned. ”Why else? For the booze and women! Kahahaha!”

His answer elicited a round of excited cheers from the people around him who were also entering the fine establishment for the same reasons.

Hearing his response, Kael’s lips twitched incessantly. Before he could speak another word, Adam grabbed his arm and dragged him toward the entrance.

”Just shut up and relax, brother! I’ve been sick of seeing seagulls and ugly sailors for the past few months,” Adam loudly said as they walked toward the entrance where the entry manager stood.

”Gentlemen,” The middle-aged man with neatly combed hair and dressed in fine silk robes, greeted the pair. Two burly bodyguards radiating the strength of a Rank 1 Magus stood behind him, indifferently gazing at them.

”This fine establishment accepts reservations only,” said the man with a polite smile. ”I have never seen you two before. Are you perhaps tourists?”

”Ah, sort of!” Adam grinned. ”We’re new here but we’re not tourists. We’ve officially become residents of this city after getting employment at…”

He stepped forward and whispered in the man’s ears, ”The Cage.”

The man’s eyes narrowed, but before he could ask more questions, Adam placed a tiny leather pouch on the standing table in front of the man.

”For your troubles,” said Adam with a wink.

The man frowned. He covertly grabbed the pouch, checked its contents, and was more than happy. His smile became sincere as he stepped aside. ”Gentlemen, welcome to Night Paradise. May you have a wonderful time.”

Adam entered through the doors with a lively expression, meanwhile Kael followed behind him while shaking his head.

After the pair had entered, the manager standing at the entrance instructed one of the bodyguards, ”Find out whether Silver Vess has hired two brutes recently. Hmm, they seem strong. At least, Mana Foundation Magi.”

His eyes then narrowed and he added, ”If these people are lying… then I’ll make sure they don’t leave this place.”

…

When Adam and Kael stepped inside, the scent of perfume, wine, and burning incense gently assaulted thier nostrils.

A grand chandelier hung from the ceiling, illuminating the hall in a dreamy glow. A circular stage dominated the center of the floor, where dancers and entertainers performed.

Needless to say, the clothes they wore were the bare minimum—just enough to tease the patrons and make them drool for more.

In one corner, a live band played music. All around the center stage, there were seating arrangements for customers.

It was a sanctuary of indulgence where the wine never stopped flowing, gambling tables promised fortunes, and alluring figures drifted from table to table, selling companionship.

Adam and Kael occupied an empty seating area. Moments later, a server arrived before them and Adam didn’t hesitate to order the best wine they had.

”Don’t tell me…” Kael was dumbfounded. ”Did you really come here to get drunk?”

Adam rolled his eyes. ”Firstly, yes. Secondly, I’m not here to have fun. Trust me, this is business.”

Kael found it difficult to trust Adam’s words. Suddenly, a group of Magi dressed in fine robes arrived before them, gazing at them with unkind intentions.

Almost all of them were young men, and judging from their appearance and the way they carried themselves, it would appear that they were from rather wealthy backgrounds.

”Hey, you two!” One of the young men called out, his tone filled with annoyance. ”You’re sitting at our table! You need to leave!”

”Oh? Is that so? Forgive me friends, I wasn’t told that this table was reserved.” Adam feigned ignorance, putting on an apologetic expression, but inwardly he sneered.

I know this is your table.

He cast his gaze toward the blond young man standing in the center of the group with a knowing smile.

And you’re the one I am looking for!