Change & Hope

In the secretive world of the High Table, where power and danger collide, there is one element that reigns supreme—the killer. From its inception to the present day, the High Table has relied on the prowess and lethal skills of these assassins to maintain its dominion. It is the killer who serves as the vital thread connecting all the intricate workings of this vast underground empire.

Picture this: the twelve Continental hotels dispersed across the continents, like pulsating nodes of the High Table organization, each exuding an air of mystery and danger. With the assistance of enigmatic groups such as [Mole], [Eagle Eye], and [Vulture], the High Table extends its influence across the globe, weaving a web of intrigue and power.

But now, enter Jack's Templar Knights, a force hell-bent on targeting these very killers! Once upon a time, those unfortunate souls who found themselves on the High Table's hit list could do little more than rely on their own cunning and might to survive. Seeking official help seemed futile, as the authorities turned a blind eye to their pleas. However, the tides have turned now.

Now, there is someone in charge—Jack and his Templar Knights—ready to challenge the status quo. Their relentless killing of the High Table's assassins by the Templars has already been proven in the two New York battles, leaving no doubt about their ability to protect their clients from lethal threats.

Should the Templars succeed, their repeated thwarting of the High Table's bounties would deal a massive blow to the organization's most potent weapon—the power of death itself. It's like Jack isn't just building an ant nest; he's constructing a mighty dam, threatening to drown the very foundation of the High Table's influence.

Of course, Aegis comprehends the gravity of the situation. That's why he's eager to douse the impending flames before they consume everything and chaos ensues. With an air of urgency, he summons an attendant to bring him the phone, his mind set on contacting those influential figures who hold the High Table in their grasp.

Aegis knows that to combat the Templar threat, it won't be enough to mobilize the High Table's own power. The aid of these well-connected officials is indispensable. After all, an assassination from behind, striking when least expected, is the epitome of terror.

....

Gilbreth stood in the bustling streets of New York, his gaze fixed on the broadcast and TV screens that had returned to their usual programming. He was in a daze, trying to process everything he had just witnessed.

After a few moments, Gilbreth's attention shifted to the Continental Hotel, only to be taken aback by the sight before him. The familiar signboard had been replaced, now proudly displaying the words "Knights Templar of New York"!

His mind raced with thoughts as he recalled the words spoken by the Templar on TV. Could it be true? Could the high table truly be seeking vengeance? Was it more than just a rumor?

Shaking off his bewilderment, Gilbreth made a decision. He needed to find out for himself. With a mixture of curiosity and uncertainty, he headed towards the Continental Hotel, determined to put the Templar's claims to the test.

As he entered the hotel, Gilbreth was greeted by Charon, who was engrossed in reviewing some documents at the front desk. Sensing Gilbreth's presence, Charon looked up and offered a polite smile.

"Sir?" Charon inquired, noticing Gilbreth's hesitant steps. "Is there something I can assist you with?"

Gilbreth hesitated for a moment before speaking up. "I... I saw it on TV. Is it true?" he asked, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

Charon's smile widened, exuding an air of confidence. "Indeed, sir," he replied. "The rumors are true. The Knights Templar are here in New York. And... might I ask, are you interested in hiring our services?"

Gilbreth's eyes widened in surprise. "Hiring... Templars?" he stammered, trying to grasp the idea. "But... is it even possible? Can I afford it?"

Charon reassured him with a nod. "You needn't worry about the cost, sir. We will assess the assets of the opposing party, and that will determine our service fee. Rest assured, when it comes to protecting order, no price is too high."

A glimmer of hope flickered in Gilbreth's heart, only to be replaced by a sudden panic. "But... what about me? I don't have a substantial amount of money," he confessed, his tone filled with concern.

Charon's demeanor remained calm and composed. Pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose, he said,

"Money is not a hindrance, sir. We understand the value of justice and order. We will work out the details, evaluating your request thoroughly. Even as guardians, we acknowledge that everything comes at a price."

Relief washed over Gilbreth's face. "If that's the case, it couldn't be more perfect!" he exclaimed, his joy evident.

Charon nodded approvingly. "If you are certain about hiring Templar knights to protect order, I kindly request you to present your credentials. We need to conduct some investigations to ensure the authenticity of your request," he explained, motioning towards the necessary paperwork.

Gilbreth handed over his credentials, feeling a mix of excitement and anticipation. He was instructed to wait while the Templars assessed the situation. As he stepped out of the Knights Templar headquarters in New York, Gilbreth couldn't shake off the feeling of being in a dream-like state.

Shortly after submitting his credentials, Charon returned them along with a printed document. Gilbreth's eyes widened as he perused the pages. The document contained comprehensive details about his enemies, including their past actions, personal information, and more. It was an extensive dossier, surpassing his expectations.

After signing and having his photo taken for identification purposes, Gilbreth was informed that the Templars would take charge of the matter. Still unable to believe his luck, he stood there, awe-struck.

"Is this it? Is it really happening?" he muttered to himself, a mix of disbelief and gratitude filling his voice.

....

Amidst the buzz of online conversations, the names Edward, Jack, and Templar echoed ceaselessly. In a matter of minutes, the story had spread like wildfire across the global internet.

Aegis had anticipated this development long ago, yet when he tried to assert control through the official channels, he received a surprising message: they were unable to intervene due to being "forced" and their system being "hacked" by the other party.

Of course, Aegis knew all too well that they were not actually forced, but when he confronted the official personnel and threatened them, their response was unexpected. They revealed that this entire affair was a contest between the Templars and the High Table, and the official forces had no intention of stepping in.

According to their reasoning, the contract between the High Table and the officials was still in effect, allowing the former to act without constraints beyond the established rules.

However, the Templars were exempt from any official restrictions.

In other words, if Aegis were to take action against the officials, it would be seen as the High Table unilaterally tearing up the treaty. Consequently, the official forces would unabashedly throw their support behind the Templars!

Aegis was well aware that the official forces would likely side with the Templars, but on the flip side, as long as the contract remained intact, the High Table could not take action against the officials without concrete evidence.

Engaging in such a confrontation would result in Aegis facing opposition from both the official forces and the Templars simultaneously!

Given the circumstances, it seemed much more prudent to focus solely on targeting the Templars for now. Therefore, Aegis refrained from making any further calls.

Not a single one.

The High Table had risen to its current prominence. If it couldn't handle the unexpected emergence of the Knights Templar, it would indicate that it's time for destruction had indeed come.

Moreover, Aegis was confident that as long as the Templar knights hadn't gained significant momentum, they could be suppressed!

Especially now, with the opponents making such a grand spectacle, the whole world had taken notice. If they were to fail in the end, with the High Table emerging victorious, its position in the world would be further solidified!

There were risks and rewards in this situation, and the greater the crisis, the greater the opportunities that lay hidden within.

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