The heavy iron gates of Ashford Manor slowly opened.
Three black luxury cars rolled silently up the driveway.
No one rushed.
No one shouted.
The engines stopped in perfect unison.
A chauffeur stepped out first.
Then another.
Finally...
A tall man dressed in an immaculate black suit walked toward the front door.
Behind him, six others followed, each carrying an ornate wooden chest wrapped in crimson silk.
Mrs. Agnes watched from the window.
A small smile appeared on her face.
"They've arrived."
Liora frowned.
"You know them?"
Mrs. Agnes nodded.
"I've been expecting them."
---
A few moments later...
A knock echoed through the manor.
Three measured knocks.
Not demanding.
Respectful.
Caelan rose from his chair.
His expression remained calm.
"The eastern delegation."
L
