Chapter 61:The Demon Contractor
The morning sun rose steadily, casting a warm glow over the courtyard as Roland fastened the last piece of his battlesuit.
The black-and-silver armor shimmered under the light, its design sleek yet sturdy, designed for both mobility and power. His wives stood nearby, watching with evident concern. Janet crossed her arms, frowning deeply, while Priya bit her lip in silence. Jess tried to keep a brave face but failed.
Seeing Roland gear up wasn’t unusual. But the fact that he was riding out with Lana who had arrived nearly dead from a battle days ago sent unease through them all.
She was already strong yet she was injured to this state so they were afraid of Roland getting hurt.
"You’re really going with her?" Janet asked, unable to hide her worry.
"She’s the only one who can lead me to the place," Roland said calmly, strapping his gauntlet. "And we’re only going to investigate, not to fight head-on. I’ll return by nightfall."
He smiled to reassure them, but inside, a storm brewed. What if someone attacks while I’m gone? The combined power function of the system could only be used once a year, so he didn’t want to waste it unless absolutely necessary. But sitting and waiting wouldn’t solve anything either.
Roland and Lana soon mounted their beasts which was stronger, faster versions of ordinary horses and rode toward the dense forest. Roland led the way, keeping a mental map of the terrain. Lana, unfamiliar with the area, followed closely, her sword ready.
After an hour of trudging through winding paths and dense brush, the crystal in Lana’s possession began to glow faintly.
"It’s reacting," she said, pointing forward. "That direction... Yes. I think this is where I was ambushed."
Roland’s eyes sharpened. "Let’s go."
He flicked the reins and their steeds advanced cautiously. As they rode, Lana warned him, "Demon contractors fight dirty. Expect nothing less than poison, illusions, traps... all the worst kinds of magic."