The night over Lakefront City was tranquil, the lake surface gleaming faintly like a rippling mirror of water.
Leon sat at the desk in his study, his gaze passing through the tall window toward the distant lake, but his thoughts were not on the view before him.
Eight days had passed since he returned to Lakefront City, yet his heart was still unsettled.
As a Rank 1 Mage, he held considerable status in this city.
In public, he was the owner of Mudinglin Magic Shop, and everyone called him Baron Leon.
In secret, he was a member of Lakefront City's Black Magic Society, constantly walking between shadows and danger.
"Baron." A low voice interrupted his thoughts.
Leon turned and saw the elderly butler standing respectfully in the doorway.
The man looked composed, but could not conceal the caution in his eyes. "A merchant caravan has arrived outside. They say they wish to see you."
Leon raised his brows slightly, vaguely guessing what this was about.
He nodded, rose, and followed the butler downstairs.
In the courtyard, a convoy of merchant carriages stood quietly parked. The mud on their wheels had not yet dried, making it clear they had come from afar.
The caravan leader was a burly man. The moment he saw Leon, he stepped forward and asked in a low voice, "You are Baron Leon?"
"That's me," Leon replied flatly.
"These are materials sent from Fortress of Will." The leader pointed at the cargo on the carriages, though he did not dare look at Leon for long.
Leon glanced over the manifest and picked up a pen to sign his mark.
The caravan workers immediately began unloading the goods, then left in haste, as if they were unwilling to remain a moment longer.
The courtyard soon filled with all