Chapter 50: Oliver ( re-released )
The scene shifts back to the bloody, torch-lit corridors deep within the Spider Syndicate’s hidden base.
Oliver, the calm, middle-aged operative, walked briskly through the tunnels, his face set in a grim expression.
Behind him hurried Malkor, the terrified thug who had brought the news of the attack.
Despite his age, Oliver moved with surprising speed and agility, his steps purposeful. Malkor, on the other hand, kept lagging slightly, his eyes darting nervously around, clearly expecting the "monster" to leap out from every shadow.
The sounds of distant fighting – screams, thuds, and the occasional clang of metal – were growing louder, guiding them closer to the source of the chaos.
Oliver, without turning around or slowing his pace, spoke, his voice cold and sharp, cutting through Malkor’s fear.
"I can see you are deliberately trying to slow us down, trying to avoid leading me directly to the intruder." Malkor flinched at the accusation.
"This is your first, and it will be your last, mistake of this kind," Oliver continued, his tone like ice. "If you attempt such foolishness again, I will personally brick you into one of these walls. Understand?"
Malkor nearly tripped over his own feet in his haste to comply. "Yes, Master Oliver! Forgive me, Master Oliver!" he stammered, his voice trembling. He immediately quickened his pace, scurrying to keep up, no longer daring to lag behind. He pointed down a side corridor.
"This way, sir! I think... I think he went this way!"
They navigated a few more twists and turns in the labyrinthine tunnels. The stench of blood was much stronger here, and the sounds of violence were very close now.