Chapter 26: Adventurer’s Forest
Ian followed closely behind Ninja 1, his steps quiet yet steady. The masked figure led him through the winding streets of Blood City, their destination clear but their path indirect. After what felt like an hour of weaving through alleys and side streets, they arrived at their first stop—the Adventurer's Forest.
The towering trees stretched into the sky, their twisted branches resembling the grasping hands of the dead. Unlike normal forests, the Adventurer's Forest had an eerie stillness, an unnatural silence that made Ian's instincts sharpen. The only sounds came from the occasional whisper of the wind and the distant roars of creatures hidden within.
Ninja 1 stopped and turned his crimson gaze toward Ian. "This is where ambitious fools test their limits and where the strong sharpen their fangs," he began. "The Adventurer's Forest is a proving ground, a hunting zone, and a battlefield. Warriors, mercenaries, and scouts from different clans come here to hunt powerful creatures, refine their skills, and claim rare resources. Some seek personal growth, while others gather ingredients for rituals, weapon forging, or alchemy."
Ian absorbed the information, his own eyes scanning the dense foliage. "So this place is both a training ground and a resource hub," he muttered.
Ninja 1 nodded. "Correct. It benefits the Blood Realm in many ways. The strongest clans regulate access, ensuring only those worthy enter. We allow certain outsiders—like humans, werewolves, and even rogue vampires—to step in. Some of them never leave." A hint of amusement laced his tone.
Ian frowned slightly. "Why allow outsiders?"
"For entertainment, trade, and to set an example," Ninja 1 answered. "This place is a warning to those who underestimate us. If an outsider survives here, they may gain recognition. If they die... well, they serve as food for the beasts and an example for the weak."
Ian smirked. "Efficient."
They continued walking, heading toward a small clearing where a hidden entrance lay buried beneath thick vines. As they approached, Ian decided to ask something that had been on his mind since he saw the two knights at the gate.
"I have a question about the curse swords," Ian said. "Each one has a unique ability, right?"
Ninja 1 glanced at him, then nodded. "That is correct. Each curse sword is forged through blood rituals and ancient enchantments. They are relics from an era where vampires sought to challenge the gods. Their abilities vary, but all are deadly."