Vesper Consortium

 Then, the last, Griffin governs Braedon and is supported by the Vesper Consortium."

Hmm. Perhaps this is why Eric invited me for a chat in his home? But what could I possibly help him with? I still am unsure about his motives, especially considering that back when we met I was much weaker. Did he think Ayame could be a useful soldier? Well, I will never be able to guess without more information, so I move on.

Wait, I'm not familiar with the third name. "Vesper Consortium?"

"A ruthless criminal organization. In the duchy of Greenveil there are three noteworthy syndicates, and the Vesper Consortium is one of them. Furthermore, Winterwood is almost exclusively under their control; the other two organizations have been pushed out. Braedon is their biggest branch location in the county."

Oh. "So we are walking into a town that is basically ruled by criminals?"