The Legendary Mage (Alavin) novel Chapter 365

They still held their defensive stances against the assassins, but mysteriously, the attackers lay dead, and their blood soaked the ground in a ghastly scene.

The courtyard fell quiet for what seemed an eternity until a chilling realization snapped everyone to alertness. By then, the shadowy figure had vanished without a trace.

"To arms, we have an assassin!" Lucan quickly rallied to protect Oda, Mariela, and the others. His senses became heightened for any sign of danger. They were shaken and drenched in sweat. Where had these killers come from, and how had they died so silently?

"I thought I saw a shadow move," Grima declared, gripping her golden spear and scanning the area for the source of danger.

"Is everyone unharmed?" Lucan was a beacon of fiery resolve, his gaze sweeping the surrounding courtyard.

"We're fine," Helna murmured, instinctively reaching for her neck before quickly embracing Oda to shield her from the blood-drenched horror outside.

"These assassins are likely from Amber Valley," Celesse conjectured calmly. Anyone with the courage and skill to infiltrate the stronghold and evade the guards was surely among the Northlands' elite. Amber Valley was the only force capable of such stealth.

"Who could have slain them all?" Lucan wondered, searching for any trace of the elusive shadow, uncertain whether to be grateful or horrified. The Amber Valley's silent infiltrators had to be exceptional warriors, and yet, at the critical moment of their strike, they met their demise. Observing the corpses, a chill coursed through Lucan. Were them friend or foe? Who was this cloaked figure?

In a dilapidated corner of the stronghold, a shadowy figure materialized, clutching a blood-drenched spine. His attire was tattered, his hair was wild and unkempt, and his frame gaunt as if just another commoner, but his eyes glowed an otherworldly crimson, peering into the distance through his matted locks.

"Rally together!" Celesse commanded the guards loudly.

"Secure the entire courtyard," Grima ordered, frustrated by her earlier carelessness.

Hundreds of guards formed a protective barrier around them while others sealed off the vicinity, making it impregnable.