Chapter 28: Devil’s Enclave.
On the airborne vessel, Nioh sat in a cross-legged position, analyzing the details regarding the Devil's Enclave on a holographic display. The bleak descriptions of the landscape were sufficient to cause even experienced hunters to hesitate:.
As he scrolled through the reports, three young men approached him. They were around eighteen, each carrying an air of confidence—or arrogance.
The first, a brown-skinned young man with short black hair and rugged features, had a large saber slung across his back. Clad in tough leather, he stood with his arms folded. "We must talk about our tactics for safeguarding the area," he declared, his voice firm yet tinged with impatience.
Nioh lifted his head from the screen, his golden eyes narrowing as he studied them. "Then discuss," he said simply.
The young man didn't appear taken aback by the direct answer. "The Devil's Enclave is infamous for being nearly impossible to defend. The landscape is against us—sharp rocks complicate ground assaults, and the salty sand disrupts information collection and communications. Factor in the volcano, which might erupt at any time, along with the strong winds that render aerial methods unreliable. If we fail to prepare adequately, we're doomed. "
The second young man, dressed completely in black, including sleek goggles obscuring his eyes, spoke next. His voice was calm and precise. "I'm Cyanide, from the Order of the Crow. "
Nioh slightly tilted his head, his gaze briefly lingering on the goggles with silent curiosity. Cyanide continued, "I recommend we rotate defense shifts. Since we aren't familiar with each other enough to collaborate effectively, it's advisable to share the responsibilities.
However, your team is lacking in manpower. I don't have faith in five individuals managing the defense independently. " Before Nioh could reply, the third man, wearing white robes and holding a decorative golden staff, interrupted. His tone carried a note of contempt.
"Kid, your team is jeopardizing us all. It's irresponsible. " Nioh's eyes darted to the staff for a moment, his expression inscrutable.