Chapter 24

As Kael 's carriage rolled to a stop in front of the newly acquired manor, he couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation at the prospect of starting a new chapter in his life. Although the manor was freshly acquired, its grandeur and elegance were undeniable, hinting at the possibilities and potential that lay within its walls.

The manor's architecture exuded a timeless charm, with ivy-covered walls, soaring turrets, and stained glass windows that sparkled in the sunlight. The grounds surrounding the estate were expansive, with manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and winding pathways that led to secluded gardens and hidden alcoves.

As Kael stepped out of the carriage, he was greeted by the sight of his eager servants awaiting his arrival. They bowed respectfully as he approached, their expressions filled with anticipation and excitement at the prospect of serving their new master.

Entering the manor, Kael was immediately struck by its grandeur and opulence. The interior was tastefully furnished with exquisite antiques, luxurious fabrics, and ornate decorations that spoke to the wealth and sophistication of its previous owners.

Despite its recent acquisition, the manor felt like home to Kael , a place where he could finally put down roots and build a life for himself. As he explored its halls and chambers, he couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to call such a magnificent estate his own.

With each passing moment, Kael felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The manor was more than just a property – it was a symbol of his aspirations and ambitions, a place where he could carve out his own destiny and write his own story.

And as he stood in the grand foyer of his newly acquired manor, Kael knew that the adventure was just beginning,but he was ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead, guided by the vision of the life he had always dreamed of.

Not wasting a second to rest Kael summoned Xaphan to the office in the knew mansion.

Five minutes later Xaphan was already in the office facing Kael

"what can I do for you, young master" said Xaphan

"As you know we are new to this city and we don't really understand the city power dynamics and undercurrents.. It is imperative for us to gain an understanding of the city's power structure, important nobles, their goals as well their weaknesses if possible, potential threats to us ,potential allies. We need to have those information so as not to be caught off guard by any situation while in this city..As we don't have our own spy network in the city, I need you to find out where we can get hold of these information and don't be too conspicuous " Said Kael

" Very well, young master I will personally see to it.. If that's all I'll take my leave" replied Xaphan before turning and leaving

Xaphan then left the manor and decided to roam the city to learn about Intel agencies. As Xaphan continued to roam the city, his ears attuned to the whispers of intrigue and the echoes of clandestine meetings, he stumbled upon a particularly intriguing rumor.It spoke of information guilds, clandestine organizations specializing in the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge.

These guilds, it was said, held sway over the secrets of the city, trading in information like currency and wielding influence behind the scenes. Most were small, their reach limited to the barren city and its surrounding areas, but there were whispers of larger guilds, their tendrils stretching across the southern continent like a web of shadows.

After gathering rumors about the existence of information guilds in the city, Xaphan found himself in a dimly lit tavern, its walls adorned with the echoes of whispered secrets and the scent of ale thick in the air. Seated at the bar with a drink, he leaned in close to the grizzled barman, his voice low and intent.

"Barman," Xaphan began, "I seek information on the whereabouts of these information guilds rumored to operate within the city. Can you guide me to them?"

The barman, a weathered veteran of the city's streets, regarded the guard with a mixture of curiosity and caution. He leaned in closer, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Ah, information guilds," the barman began, his voice a low rumble tinged with a hint of intrigue. "Aye, they're like whispers in the wind, elusive yet ever-present."

Xaphan nodded, eager for any insight the barman could provide. "Tell me more," he urged.

The barman's eyes gleamed with a spark of knowledge as he leaned in, his voice barely above a whisper. "There are a few of them in the city," he confided. "Mostly small, operating in the shadows of the Barren City and its outskirts. But there are bigger fish swimming in the pond, too."

"Big fish?" Xaphan prompted, his interest piqued.

"Aye," the barman continued, gesturing with a weathered hand. "There be guilds with reach far beyond these city walls. They've got fingers in every pie, from the southern continent to the far reaches of the demon realm."

"which is the most reliable of them" asked Xaphan eagerly

He looked at the barman right in the eye, eager for the barman's guidance, the seasoned tavern keeper fixed him with a knowing gaze. "If you seek the most reliable information guild in these parts," he began, his voice a low rumble carrying an air of authority, "there's one name that's whispered in hushed tones by those in the know."

He leaned in closer, as if imparting a secret of great importance. "The Raven's Eye," he murmured, his words weighted with significance.

The guard's eyes widened at the mention of the guild. "The Raven's Eye?" he repeated, his interest piqued.

"Aye," the barman confirmed, nodding solemnly. "They're known for their discretion, their reliability, and their vast network of informants. If there's a secret to be uncovered or a piece of information to be had, they're the ones to seek out."

"Where can I find the Raven's Eye?" he asked, his voice eager yet tinged with a hint of caution.

The barman nodded, his expression grave. "The Raven's Eye operates from the shadows, concealed from prying eyes," he explained. "But there are whispers of a contact point, a place where those seeking their services may find them."

"Head to the outskirts of the city, beyond the northern gate," he instructed. "There, amidst the abandoned warehouses and forgotten alleyways, you'll find a nondescript building with a single black raven perched above the door."

Xaphan absorbed the barman's words, committing the directions to memory. "And how will I know if I've found the right place?" he inquired, his gaze unwavering.

The barman's lips curled into a knowing smile. "Look for the symbol," he replied cryptically. "The Raven's Eye marks their territory with their sigil, a black raven with its piercing gaze fixed upon all who pass."

Finishing his drink, Xaphan left a few low level mana crystals before leaving to inform Kael about his findings..