With Gorok joining the team, Zadi, Kael, and Rina felt more confident in facing the challenges ahead. However, they knew they still needed one more member: an Assassin skilled in infiltration, information gathering, and eliminating enemies from the shadows.
Grandma Esmeralda advised them to search in the Black Market — an underground marketplace hidden in the heart of Shadow City. The Black Market was a place where anything could be bought or sold, from ancient Shadow artifacts to secret information, and even human lives.
"The Black Market is dangerous," Gorok said, frowning. "We'll have to be careful."
"I know," replied Zadi. "But we don't have any other choice. We need to find an Assassin who can help us."
They made their way to the Black Market, located beneath Shadow City. The entrance was hidden behind a false wall in a dark, treacherous alleyway. Once inside, they found themselves in a labyrinth of narrow, twisting corridors filled with merchants, criminals, and seekers of illegal goods.
The air was thick with the scent of exotic spices, forbidden drugs, and blood. Dim Shadow lamps illuminated the market, casting eerie, shifting lights that deepened the atmosphere of mystery and fear.
"Welcome to the Black Market," said a man in a black cloak who greeted them at the entrance. "What are you looking for?"
"We're looking for an Assassin," Zadi answered. "Someone skilled at infiltration, information gathering, and eliminating targets from the shadows."
The man grinned, studying Zadi with a calculating gaze. "I know a few Assassins who might fit your needs," he said. "But they're not cheap. You'll have to pay a high price for their services."
"We're willing to pay," Zadi replied. "But we want proof of their skills first."
The man nodded. "Very well," he said. "Follow me."
He led Zadi, Kael, Rina, and Gorok through a concealed passage behind another false wall. Inside, they entered a dimly lit chamber where several Assassins were training with their weapons. Some were throwing daggers with deadly precision, while others moved with blinding speed and agility.
"These are the finest Assassins in the Black Market," said the man. "Choose the one that best suits your needs."
Zadi carefully observed the Assassins, searching for someone with the skill, experience, and determination needed for their mission.
Then his eyes landed on a young woman standing silently in the corner of the room. She wore tight black clothing, and her long dark hair partially hid her face. In her hands, she held a pair of Shadow daggers that gleamed with dark energy.
"Who is that woman?" Zadi asked.
"That's Lyra," the man replied. "She's the most mysterious and dangerous Assassin in the Black Market. No one knows where she came from or what her true motives are. But everyone knows one thing — she's deadly."
"I want to talk to her," said Zadi.
The man shrugged. "Suit yourself," he said. "But don't blame me if she kills you."
Zadi approached Lyra and stopped in front of her. She didn't move or speak, only fixed him with a cold, piercing stare.
"My name is Zadi," he said. "I'm looking for an Assassin to join my team. I've heard you're the best in the Black Market."
Lyra was silent for a moment before replying in a low, husky voice. "What do you want from me?"
"I want you to help us," Zadi replied. "We're searching for an ancient Shadow artifact and fighting against a hidden clan. We need someone with your skills to infiltrate dangerous places and eliminate the threats that stand in our way. Are you interested?"
Lyra studied Zadi with an intensity that made him uneasy. "And what will I gain if I join you?" she asked.
"I can't promise you riches or fame," Zadi said. "But I can promise you a chance to use your skills for a greater purpose. Together, we'll protect the world from the dark power of Shadow."
Lyra fell silent again, as if considering his offer. Finally, she gave a slight nod. "Alright," she said. "I'll join you."
Zadi smiled in relief. He knew Lyra was a valuable addition to their team. But he also sensed something mysterious and dangerous about her. He couldn't help but wonder about her past — and what drove her to become an Assassin. He knew he had to be cautious around her, but he also believed he could trust her.
"Welcome to the team," Zadi said. "I'm sure we'll work well together."
Lyra didn't respond. She simply nodded and followed Zadi out of the room. They left the Black Market and returned to their headquarters. Zadi knew their adventure had only just begun. With Lyra now part of the team, they were ready to face whatever challenges awaited them — though deep down, he sensed that greater dangers were lurking ahead, watching from the shadows.