Chapter 20
A sleek black luxury sedan rolled slowly up the estate's private gravel driveway in Westchester, stopping near the front entrance with quiet discretion. Arthur walked out to meet the vehicle, opening the rear door to retrieve a single, heavy leather envelope delivered by a federal courier. He brought it over to the patio, handing it to Clara with a curious expression that suggested another twist in their extraordinary journey. Clara opened the envelope, sliding out a handwritten letter bearing a familiar wax seal stamped with an unfamiliar, intricate dragon crest.
She read the opening lines, her eyes narrowing as a cold, calculating realization washed over her posture and expression. "What does it say, Clara? Is there another syndicate threat hiding in the shadows?" Liam asked, stepping onto the patio with immediate concern. "Not a threat... an invitation," Clara murmured, holding up the letter for both men to inspect closely in the afternoon light. "The remnants of the European council are offering you a seat at the head of their global board," Arthur read aloud in disbelief.
