OLD-WORLD EXTRA

Chapter 136: Magnus's First Move

Chapter 136: Magnus's First Move

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Emir remained motionless, his eyes fixed on the man standing before him.

The relics surrounding them seemed insignificant at that moment.

Breaking the glass protecting those items would require considerable effort, even for a Paladin-ranked ascendant like him.

So his sole concern was shielding his mother from what she was about to witness.

"Mom, close your eyes," he commanded, his voice low and steady, as he maintained an unwavering gaze on his potential adversary.

The man stood unmoving, his attire a sharp contrast to the tension in the air.

Clad in a tightly fitted black suit that accentuated his out-of-shape physique, he appeared like an ordinary wealthy businessman, his wealth extending only to his expanding waistline.

Emir watched as the man's hand moved, positioning itself to retrieve something from the suitcase he held.

But before he could make a move, Emir's voice boomed with a warning:

"DON'T FUCKING MOVE, OR YOUR HEAD WILL DANCE!"

And to his surprise, the man complied without a flinch, a response that only confirmed his suspicions.

This encounter was not accidental, and the man had come here with motives beyond purchasing relics.

Raising his hand cautiously, the man ran his pale fingers through the remnants of his balding head, pushing back his slicked gray hair.

He spoke, his voice calm and controlled:

"Please, lower your weapon and remain calm. I have not come here with any intention of physically harming you."

Emir scoffed.

"Physically? You Elite love to play with words, don't you? Or are you Corpo?"

Seeing that the man was unfazed by his proclamation made Emir certain of what he was dealing with.

The man's smile widened, his composure unwavering, as he said:

"Now that we are being civil, let us act like proper human beings. You may call me by my name, Vincent Renfield."

Emir offered no reply, instead gesturing for Vincent to follow him.

Without protest, Vincent complied once again, trailing behind Emir as they exited the store, leaving Laura and Lyra behind.

[Keep an eye out for others and watch over Mom for me now, will you, dear?] He said while heading towards a nearby cafe.

Known to many hunters for being the perfect place to discuss private dealings without having anyone spy on you, the Order included.

Lyra's response carried a touch of amusement:

[No need to imitate how Laura talks to me, okay? If you want to call me by a nickname that I would love, but I'd prefer something special between us.]

His face remained impassive as he replied:

[You don't seem worried about the situation.]

[Why would I? I finally have you back, and I know me and you together could get through this with no problem.]

Their exchange took on a slower pace than their usual lightning-fast communication.

Emir, too, was preoccupied with thoughts racing through his mind, contemplating Mangus's possible actions now that they had discovered Lyra's defection.

[Good to know that you're confident... It helps me clear my thoughts.]

[It's great that I'm of help to you.] She said, and he could almost hear the sound of her lips widening into a dazzling smile.

Shifting his gaze to the right, he approached a building around the corner, spotting the café he intended to visit.

He never once looked behind him throughout their entire way there, as he simply didn't need to, he knew that Vincent was nearby, feeling the Aether behind him shift.

He also used the radar on his augmented suit, since he instantly turned it on the moment Vincent entered the store.

Upon arrival, they stood before a grand five-story building.

The facade of the building exuded an aura of elegance and sophistication.

The exterior was made primarily of sleek, dark-colored glass, and the windows, covering the entire building, were tinted to a shade of darkness that created an air of exclusivity, while still allowing streams of sunlight to filter through, casting soft rays inside.

At the entrance, a large sign hung proudly above the glass doors, proclaiming the name of the establishment, 'Luna Noir Café.'

The sign was crafted with intricate silver lettering, which shimmered in the sunlight. Emir eyed the ground floor, which featured a spacious outdoor seating area, with elegant wrought-iron tables and chairs arranged neatly under large umbrellas.

The seating area was adorned with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, creating a refreshing and inviting atmosphere.

Emir stood still, taking in the sight, before gesturing for Vincent to enter first.

"After you."

And without hesitation, he obliged, stepping in front of Emir and leading the way into the café.

Stepping inside, they were greeted by an interior that exuded a sense of contemporary elegance.

The walls were adorned with textured panels in shades of deep purple and black, creating a luxurious ambiance. Soft, warm lighting illuminated the space, casting a gentle glow that added to the cozy and intimate feel of the café.

The main seating area was tastefully arranged, with plush leather armchairs and cozy booths offering comfort and privacy.

Tables of varying sizes were strategically placed to accommodate both individuals seeking solitude and groups of friends engaged in lively conversations.

Large floor-to-ceiling windows on one side of the café offered a panoramic view of the bustling city, providing a captivating backdrop for patrons enjoying their drinks and meals.

The windows were fitted with sheer curtains in deep purple hues, adding a touch of elegance and privacy to the space.

A long, polished counter stretched along one wall, displaying an impressive array of freshly baked pastries, delicate cakes, and an assortment of gourmet coffee beans.

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee permeated the air, enticing him to indulge in the café's carefully crafted beverages.

Shaking off his momentary distraction, Emir followed Vincent to the counter, keeping a

watchful eye on his every move.

Vincent turned to the receptionist and calmly stated:

"We require a private room for two on the upper floors. Put it on my account."

'As I thought, this guy is used to this, he might be someone from an elite family, the Order won't involve themselves with nobodies.' He inwardly snickered, trailing behind Vincent as they made their way to the nearest elevator.

Reaching the fifth floor, they stepped out onto a quiet hallway, lined with numbered rooms

housing other patrons.

Vincent stopped in front of room 509, the door opening to reveal a simple yet dimly lit space.

Two couches faced each other, separated by a large table.

Emir swiftly scanned the room, employing his Weaver's Grasp and information gathering

device.

Finding no one else but themselves, he entered the room, Vincent following closely.

The door then shut behind them, sealing off the outside world.