The Shadow Nexus Online

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Chapter 16: Watching Eyes and Dangerous Truths

The cool night air greeted them as Rio, Retina, and Iris stepped out of the Guild Hall. The streets of Nightfall were quieter now, with only a few scattered lanterns illuminating the cobblestone path. The distant sounds of clinking metal and murmured conversations echoed through the alleys.

Retina walked beside Rio, her posture composed but her voice barely above a whisper.

"That was risky, Rio," she murmured, her violet eyes reflecting concern. "Do you think he believed us?"

Rio's jaw clenched as he glanced over his shoulder, ensuring no one was following them.

"He has doubts…" Rio admitted softly. "But for now, we bought ourselves some time."

Iris, now back in her wolf form, padded silently beside them, her ears twitching as she scanned the surroundings.

"Let's just hope we don't run into someone who knows the real truth," she muttered, her voice carrying a hint of unease.

But unknown to them, danger had already taken notice.

A figure, shrouded in the darkness of a nearby alley, watched them intently. His lips curled into a sinister smile as his eyes gleamed with intrigue.

"Draco's…" the figure whispered, his voice barely audible. "So… they've returned."

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Deep within a dimly lit chamber, far from the bustling streets, the same figure knelt before a hooded presence wreathed in dark energy. Tendrils of shadow danced around the room, feeding off an ancient malice that seeped from the very walls.

"My Lord," the figure spoke, his tone reverent, "the descendants of Draco's lineage have resurfaced."

The hooded figure, hidden in shadow, remained silent for a moment.

"Excellent…" a voice, cold and calculating, echoed from the darkness. "We must observe them closely. Their power may yet be… useful."

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Rio walked in silence, his thoughts a storm of worry and resolve.

We're walking a dangerous path now… but there's no turning back.

The weight of their deception pressed heavily on his shoulders. One wrong move, and everything would crumble.

Retina glanced at him, her resolve reflecting in her eyes.

"We have to stay ahead of them," she thought to herself, determination hardening her features. Whatever it takes.

Beside them, Iris's ears perked suddenly, her senses detecting something—an ominous, distant presence.

"Something… is coming," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

Rio's eyes narrowed.

"Whatever's waiting for us…" he whispered, his voice resolute. "We'll be ready."

But in the shadows, unseen and unknown, a sinister game had already begun.

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To Be Continued…

The secrets of the Draco's lineage have been revealed… but their consequences are just beginning to unfold.