Browning gazed in disbelief at the photograph from the Lord's book.
Although Fong How described it as a treasured item, it left him in astonishment for quite some time.
Only upon Fong's prompting did he begin to prepare a canvas of adequate size, aligning it with a photograph to commence his work.
Two hours later, the canvas bore color, outlining the general hues.
Browning resolved to refine it further.
As Fong Hao intended to return the following day for additional adjustments based on the photograph, after departing from Browning's abode, the night had already descended.
Fong Ho, accompanied by Ja, made their way back home.
from a maid.
They learned that Lorena had once again ventured to the tavern for drinks.
Fong Hao, however, retreated directly to his room, intending to rest.
No sooner had he closed the door than a figure began to materialize from the shadows in the corner, startling him.
His right hand swiftly brushed over the Lord's book, and the staff was already in his grasp.
Instinctively, he prepared to retaliate and exit the room, only to find that the shadow concealed a small spectre.
Shiau, you have once again succeeded in startling me.
Fonhow remarked, somewhat irritable as he sheathed his weapon.
Shiau offered a slight smile, apologizing, "My apologies, my lord.
I possess some vital intelligence that I must share with you.
Shall you have been playing the role of a loyal informant? Gathering clandestine information regarding the faceless ones for Fong Hao.
" "Oh, what intelligence do you have?" Fong Hao inquired, taking a seat nearby.
Sha you spoke directly, my lord? The faceless ones have begun to suspect you, and they will disclose false intelligence to the city lord's mansion to ascertain whether you are the one aiding Rebecca.
Upon hearing this news, Fongo's brow furrowed instantly.
In an era devoid of cameras and surveillance devices, his caution coupled with Rebecca's cover, should have rendered him undetectable.
Yet why had suspicion fallen upon him? How would they come to suspect me? Funhow inquired.
Shiaui replied, "One of the high-ranking officials within the city lord's mansion is among the faceless ones.
He discovered that the task hall concealed your registered mercenary information and coupled with your frequent visits to the city lord's mansion.
" He deduced your involvement.
After a pause, she added, "Some of the faceless ones believe you're not connected, yet they still devised a false report to confirm whether you are affiliated with your mercenary group.
" Listening to this, Fongghao understood where the flaw in his identity lay.
It must have been Rebecca's efforts to keep his identity secret that inadvertently provided the clue leading to their suspicion.
So, if I simply refrain from participating in this operation, that would suffice, correct? Fongo pondered aloud.
Indeed, that would be the simplest course of action.
However, it would not eliminate their suspicion.
I believe it would be more prudent to seize this opportunity to completely dispel their doubts.
Shiau articulated her thoughts.
Funghow cast a glance at Xiao Yu, his mind racing with ideas.
The most straightforward approach would undoubtedly be to cancel the action upon learning of their scheme, remaining inactive.
Yet, doing so would only intensify their suspicion, prompting them to concoct further plots to test Fong Hao or even attempt a direct assassination.
Shiau<unk>s strategy was to use the enemy's probing to allay the Faceless One's suspicions, facilitating future actions.
You make a valid point.
Do you have any specific ideas? Funo inquired.
Shall you responded, "My lord, I believe the best course of action would be to allow the Faceless One's plans to succeed while you fortuitously appear before them, providing ample alibi.
Of course, this is merely my suggestion.
We must carefully devise a strategy to ensure they harbor no doubts.
Indeed, that is a commendable notion, Fongho nodded.
The threat posed by the Faceless Ones stem from the obscurity of their unknowns.
If he could ascertain their objectives, they would pose little danger.
Fong Ho could swiftly suppress them with force or eliminate them to prevent future threats.
However, they resembled a swarm of mosquitoes in the night, striking only when one is inattentive.
While Fong Hoa did not believe they possessed the capability to end his life, he wished to avoid becoming their primary target.
Very well, I will devise a solid plan before the operation.
Do you have any further information regarding the Faceless Ones? Fong Hao continued to inquire.
A few days prior, Shiau recounted, "I accompanied Riley to a meeting of the Faceless Ones where I discovered a distinct hierarchical structure among them.
Each city boasts a leader tasked with distributing and coordinating mission information.
This investigation into your affairs was also initiated by this leader.
Fonggho listened intently, awaiting the conclusion of Xiao Yu<unk>s remarks.
He was aware that the Faceless Ones operated as an intelligence organization infiltrating various sectors.
Yet, his knowledge of their internal dynamics was rather limited.
Furthermore, the findings from Rebecca's inquiries were not disclosed to him.
Thus, the notions of hierarchy, leadership, and the method of task assignment were revelations to him.
Is the leader Riley? Fongha inquired.
Shiau shook her head.
No, Riley is merely one of the members.
After the meeting concluded, I discreetly followed this leader.
His carriage entered the Lord's manner, confirming he is indeed someone within the Lord s domain.
This revelation that the power core of Lysus City and the leader of the Faceless Ones were both situated within the Lord S's state surprise Fong Ho.
Yet, it also seemed plausible.
Can you ascertain their identity? He pressed further.
Not at this moment, Shiau replied.
A hint of embarrassment in her voice.
The individual was exceedingly secretive.
After entering the Lord<unk>'s manor, I lost sight of my target and thus have yet to uncover their true identity.
The Lord's manner is far from modest.
The Lord's family and their numerous guards and servants make it challenging to ascertain anyone's identity based solely on inference.
By the way, you mentioned that a high-ranking member of the Faceless Ones would be arriving.
Have they arrived yet? Fongghao suddenly recalled.
Not yet.
The timing of their arrival remains uncertain.
However, from Riley and their discussions, it is evident that they regard this individual with great significance, possessing the potential to alter the current dynamics of Lysa City, thereby offering greater benefits and security to their faction.
Shiau continued, "Notify me immediately should any intelligence arise, and do remain cautious.
" Fong how advised.
He found himself intrigued by this external faceless one.
Someone of such importance to the locals must surely be a person of remarkable caliber.
The malicious intent exhibited by the faceless ones toward travelers warranted his vigilance despite his current safety.
The possibility of coexistence had nearly vanished.
It was merely a matter of who would strike first.
Understood, my lord.
Please take care as well.
Shia replied before her form dissipated like spilled ink into the night.
In Lysa's city, Fongghao felt little concern for his safety.
As long as the Lord s estate did not seek his demise with Demeter and Lurena present, any assassination attempts would be adequately thwarted.
The following day, Fongo strolled through the city within Jia unperturbed until dusk arrived when indeed a message from the Lord's manor was delivered.
Once again, Rebecca's devoted maid stepped into Fongo's chamber.
"Mr.
Fong Ho, this is from the lady, she said, extending a map towards him.
Funhao took the map and examined its location, which was a discrete spot outside the city.
It was to be expected.
If one were to set a trap, it could hardly be within the city limits.
Clearly, the outskirts were more suitable for their preparations.
Very well, I understand.
Please inform Lady Rebecca that we will venture out of the city on our own and do not require a guide, Fonggha replied, folding the map and putting it away.