CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY SEVEN –THE SEARCH

The thugs snapped to attention, their bravado evaporating in the face of the enigmatic figure's presence. "O-of course, boss," Victor stammered, his usual confidence deserting him. "Everything's being handled with the utmost care." The Raven seemed to consider this for a moment before nodding, their concealed features inscrutable. "See that it stays that way. I want no damage, no... imperfections marring my collection." Jasmine felt her heart hammering against her ribcage as the cloaked figure of the Raven disappeared into the shadows. Her mind raced, torn between the desire to confront the elusive art thief and the overwhelming need to reclaim her stolen works. Gritting her teeth, she made her choice. With silent, measured steps, she crept towards the crates housing her beloved paintings. The thugs milled about, their bravado returning now that their enigmatic boss had departed. "Did you see the way the Raven just ghosted out of here?" one of them chuckled, his voice a low rumbl