Timeless Assassin

Chapter 120: The Evil-Cult Meet (3)

Once the Second Elder concluded his speech and sat back down, discussions broke out amongst all the Elders present once again, as they debated the merits and demerits of his plan.

Low voices filled the chamber, whispers of agreement mixing with murmurs of concern.

Some Elders nodded in approval, while others leaned back in contemplation, weighing the potential gain against the inevitable consequences.

Then—one voice rose above the rest.

Tap. Tap. Tap.

The Fourth Elder's gloved fingers drummed against the obsidian table as he leaned forward slightly.

"This is a mistake," he said at last, his voice calm, yet carrying the weight of firm conviction, as all eyes turned to him.

"The kidnapping plan is bold, but it is a risk we cannot afford to take—not yet."

He exhaled slowly, his breath misting in the icy air.

"The Righteous Alliance is already watching us closely. If we pull off an operation of this scale, the backlash will be immediate and devastating."

His gaze swept over the chamber, lingering on the masked figures of his fellow Elders.

"They will not let this slide. They will hunt us down, break apart our networks, and purge us from every shadow we've hidden in. Even if we succeed in taking the boy, what then?"

He gestured toward the First Elder.

"The First Elder has already warned us—the Universal Government will never allow the Black Serpents to make the exchange. If they will not negotiate, then what is the purpose of this mission?"

A few murmurs of agreement rippled through the chamber.

"It is a good plan—but we are simply not strong enough to handle the backlash from it. This is not the time to take such risks, we need to consolidate our positions more before taking such drastic steps." The Fourth Elder sat back, his piece spoken.

For a moment, the chamber was still.

Then—