Chapter 5 - Into the Ruins Forest
“There’s no doubt that Curtis has been acting out of line. And it’s clear that Duke Endorc, though displeased, couldn’t do anything to stop him. So, it’s entirely plausible that this request would be made.”
Hans finished his report, a parchment filled with information in his hand. Greg nodded thoughtfully.
“The guards are a nuisance, but not a major problem. What do you think, Ghost?”
“As long as their elimination is necessary,” she replied simply, as if disposing of them was a trivial matter.
Greg nodded in agreement and snapped his fingers. “We’ve already confirmed this with the client. We can’t have any witnesses. Alright, let’s proceed with the mission. Ghost, take care of it. And if you find any treasures in the ruin, feel free to take them.”
“Understood” she replied before disappearing from the room without a sound.
After Ghost left, Hans muttered, “Are you sure this is a good idea?”
“Don’t worry, she’ll be fine. With Ghost on the job, those mages are as good as dead. And ordinary soldiers won’t be able to hold her off for long. The only question is how strong Curtis is.”
“I’ve told Ghost about him, but he’s a monster. He got the abilities of a hero. Well, for his personality… it’s beyond broken.”
Greg replied with a casual tone, fully confident in Ghost’s abilities. Hans, however, seemed more concerned. Greg knew more about Ghost’s abilities than he let on, but he had no intention of revealing everything…. even to his right-hand man.
Returning to her room, Ghost equipped herself. She donned her chestplate, bracers, and shin guards, which were well-fitted and didn’t hinder her movements. She tested her equipment with a few light jumps.
Next, she attached her short sword to her waist and two daggers to the back of her belt. She also secured throwing knives to her chest and shoulders.
Her movements were methodical and efficient as she prepared herself. With her backpack filled with supplies, she jumped once more to ensure everything was secure.
“No problem… let’s go,” she muttered, as if giving herself a command. Then, she left her room and headed out.
Following Curtis’s departure, Ghost left the city, remaining undetected. She contacted Ted, a guild member stationed in a nearby town, and relayed Greg’s instructions.
Continuing on her ‘trip’, Ghost arrived at the entrance to the ancient ruin, located in a forest northwest of the city.
The ruin were alive. A cave gaped open in the collapsed mountainside, as if caused by a landslide. A metallic door, adorned with ancient magical symbols, stood a short distance within. Beyond the door, she sensed a powerful presence — numerous magical creatures.
“I’ll wait for them here,” she murmured to herself.
She was undoubtedly a first-rate assassin, but her skills were honed for combat against humans, not large, monstrous creatures.
The creatures beyond the door were mostly humanoid, but some were much larger. It would be difficult to eliminate them while maintaining a position of advantage for a surprise attack.
Reaching this conclusion, she moved away from the entrance and disappeared into the forest, heading towards the prearranged meeting point with Ted.
**Next: A Being Beyond Human**