The figure handed Kaid a small folder containing a photograph and a detailed description of the target. "This is your mark," it said. "A wealthy merchant named Marcellus. He's been... problematic. I want him eliminated discreetly."
Kaid's eyes scanned the information, his mind racing with possibilities. "What's the catch?"
The figure's smile grew wider. "There's always a catch, isn't there? This job requires... finesse. Marcellus is hosting a masquerade ball, and you'll need to infiltrate it without being detected."
Lyra's eyes narrowed. "What kind of security does he have?"
The figure chuckled. "Let's just say Marcellus is a man who values his life. He'll have the best guards, the best traps, and the best magic. You'll need all your skills to get in and out alive."
Kaid's grip on the folder tightened. "When is the ball?"
"Tomorrow night," the figure replied. "You'll have one day to prepare. I'll give you access to Marcellus's guest list and security details. You'll need to move quickly."
Kaid nodded, his mind already racing with strategies. "I'll take the job."
The figure smiled, satisfied. "I knew I could count on you, Kaid. You'll receive the rest of the information once you've accepted the terms."
With that, the figure handed Kaid a contract, the terms of the job outlined in stark detail. Kaid's eyes scanned the page, his mind made up. He signed, sealing his fate.
As Kaid signed the contract, the figure handed him a small pouch containing a golden token. "This is your invitation to the masquerade ball," it explained. "The token will grant you access to the estate, but you'll still need to blend in."
Kaid pocketed the token, his mind racing with strategies. "I'll take care of it."
The figure nodded, its expression unreadable. "I'm counting on it. You have one day to prepare. Don't disappoint me."
With that, the mysterious figure vanished into the shadows, leaving Kaid and Lyra alone in the windmill.
"What do you think?" Lyra asked, her voice low.
Kaid's eyes narrowed. "I think this job just got a lot more complicated."
Lyra nodded. "The masquerade ball will be a challenge. We'll need to be careful."
Kaid's gaze locked onto Lyra's. "We'll get it done. Let's start planning."
Together, they began to strategize, their minds working in tandem as they prepared for the challenge ahead.
Kaid and Lyra spent the rest of the day gathering information about Marcellus's estate and the masquerade ball. They studied the guest list, security patrols, and potential entry points.
"We'll need to create a convincing cover story," Lyra said, her eyes scanning the guest list. "Marcellus doesn't invite just anyone to his parties."
Kaid nodded. "I agree. Let's create a persona that will fit in with the other guests."
Lyra smiled. "I've got an idea. Let's pose as a pair of wealthy collectors. We can use our knowledge of art and antiques to blend in."
Kaid's eyes lit up. "I like it. Let's get to work."
Together, they crafted a detailed backstory and rehearsed their roles. As the sun began to set, they felt confident in their plan.
"Tomorrow night," Kaid said, his voice low. "We'll infiltrate the estate and take out Marcellus."
Lyra nodded. "Let's hope everything goes according to plan."
Kaid's gaze locked onto hers. "It won't. But we'll adapt."
With that, they prepared for the challenge ahead, their minds focused on the mission.