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Chapter 709

Author: Summer's Blaze
On the ground lay bundles of arrows and several crossbows. There were also rows of knives and swords, along with a selection of bows. A few large barrels were stacked in one corner.

As Rafael approached, the pungent scent of gunpowder wafted toward him. The barrels were sealed tight and covered with several layers of material. Yet, the unmistakable smell of gunpowder lingered in the air.

The area where the barrels sat wasn't illuminated. The only source of light was at the entrance to the dungeon.

Rafael turned around just as Eleanor's household soldiers arrived. Their eyes widened in shock at the flickering light illuminating the dungeon. Many stood frozen, momentarily forgetting to confront the assassins.

Rafael stepped forward with his sword drawn, taking down several household soldiers in quick succession. It was then that he spotted Barrett entering with a handful of capital guards.

Barrett barely had time to take in the scene before he charged toward the so-called assassin,
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    The newcomers reeked of filth. Among them were two who seemed utterly mad. They rushed forward to grab the fresh fruit from the offering table, gnawing at it as if they were starving.A few others were so weak that they could only lie on the ground. Their faces were pale and drawn, indicating they had been ill for a long time.Just as the onlookers were trying to comprehend the identities of these unfortunate souls, another group was ushered in.Even before they entered, the stench hit those already in the room. It was nauseating, the foul odor reminiscent of rotting flesh. Molly covered her nose with a handkerchief and retreated to a corner, trying to distance herself from the horrid smell.The high priests opened their eyes. Upon seeing the limping women brought in—missing limbs, battered, and broken—a short prayer slipped from their lips. The high priests were compassionate and had a high level of spiritual practice. Despite that, the sight of such suffering stirred their ange

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