Chapter 22: The girl who became a Mercenary 1
Avila is a bustling metropolitan city, rivaling both Azurea and the imperial capital of the empire. As the headquarters of the Mercenary Guild, it truly embodies the essence of a mercenary hub. The influx of people is immense, and all around, one can spot mercenaries clad in light attire or armor, wielding a variety of weapons as they enter and exit the city through teleportation portals. The vibrant activity creates an atmosphere charged with anticipation and adventure, as individuals from all walks of life converge in search of fortune and glory.
In the areas where light barely penetrates, darkness reigns. These secluded, damp spaces come with limited visibility and narrow pathways, making it difficult to navigate freely. Often referred to as back alleys or slums, they exist in every city and tend to expand as urban development continues.
In Avila, the City of Mercenaries, slums are an unfortunate reality. These are the places where fallen adventurers and mercenaries find themselves, and where criminals lurk, creating a labyrinthine maze of despair and danger.
For anyone of sound mind or those leading respectable lives, stepping into these slums sends chills down their spine. They become tense and rigid, their instincts urging them to retreat immediately. After all, that is the true nature of slums.
However, the girl in the hood was different. In her previous world, within her empire, she often sneaked out to visit the slums, seeking to understand the suffering of the people.
As she inhaled the murky air, she shivered slightly. After taking a few deep breaths, she narrowed her eyes, her emerald gaze shimmering in the darkness.
'Found it,' she whispered to herself, taking a few cautious steps forward. Gradually making her way deeper into the alley, she suddenly quickened her pace as she sensed a presence nearby.
Thud!
With a powerful stride, energy surged through her body. Harnessing the Wind element, she propelled herself forward with incredible speed. The man hiding in the shadows realized too late what was happening and attempted to flee, but she was already upon him.