A flash of light passed, and the dumpsters and graffiti in the alley vanished, replaced by a fouler, more oppressive atmosphere.
He appeared in a narrow, damp passageway, the air thick with the pungent stench of cheap alcohol, rotten food, and some kind of potion residue.
Crooked, dilapidated buildings lined both sides. Most windows had been nailed shut with wooden boards, while even the few lit rooms were concealed behind heavy curtains.
Muted conversations, arguments, and the occasional leak of unstable magical fluctuations could be faintly heard from within the buildings.
This was the place.
A lawless land beyond official magical society, filled with fugitives, Dark Magic dealers, mercenary wizards, and all manner of fringe figures.
Over the next three weeks, Skofot moved through the shadows of this area like a ghost.
He did not rashly display his formidable strength. Instead, relying on the precise magical control honed in the training space and his keen insight into human weakness, he began selecting targets.
He used a [Loyalty Card].
Using this card required no additional Emotion Points. With a single thought, once he locked onto a target, the card transformed into an invisible brand that acted upon the depths of the target's soul.
He gave priority to Dark Wizards with some degree of strength, great ambition, and unfulfilled aspirations, as well as leaders of small gangs.
These people had desire and influence. They were more easily bound by "absolute loyalty" and could more effectively expand his power.
One card, two cards, three cards... the number of [Loyalty Cards] steadily dwindled.
He did not simply control them. After every use, he conducted a brief "interview" with the controlled person, learning about their abilities, connections, and ambitions before giving clear instructions.
—Consolidate the forces under your command, recruit more people, display your strength,