Does the Assassin Girl Dream of the Mana Doll?

To the Forest of Ruins

“Regarding Lord Curtis’ transgressions, they are undoubtedly true,” Hans began, relaying his findings. “Duke Endrake has his own grievances, yet he couldn’t discipline him. So the request for his assassination didn’t come as a surprise to me.

“Moving on, the departure of his expedition is scheduled for tomorrow at noon. Our target won’t be traveling alone; he’ll be accompanied by his entourage. The party includes a frontline warrior, a mage, a healer, and a skilled thief proficient in lockpicking and exploration. All of them are male, indicating that the Duke didn’t compromise on that matter.

“Perhaps Lord Curtis was unable to object in the presence of His Majesty the King. This also aligns with the information provided by the client,” Hans concluded, holding a parchment that contained the gathered intelligence.

After hearing the report, Greg casually nodded. “His companions will surely pose a problem. Ghost, get rid of them if needed.”

In response, Ghost nonchalantly nodded, as if the task required minimal effort on her part.

Greg clapped his hands, “I’ve already confirmed with the other party that there will be no issues. We can’t afford any witnesses, so don’t hesitate. Oh, and one more thing, if you happen to come across any treasures in the ruins, make sure to seize them.”

“Understood.” With a nod, Ghost silently left the room.

“Are you really certain about this?” Hans spoke up after Ghost had been gone for a while.

“Don’t worry, it’ll be fine. With Ghost on our side, even if they have a mage, it won’t be a problem. And an average warrior won’t be able to hold her off for long. The only thing that worries me is Curtis himself.

“I did inform her, but let me tell you, that man is one hell of a monster. His abilities alone make him deserving of the title of a hero. But his personality… Well, it’s more than just problematic. It’s downright rotten,” he said in a relaxed tone, displaying his complete trust in Ghost. Hans, however, still appeared concerned.

As far as Greg knew, Hans was unaware of Ghost’s unique qualities. Of course, he had no intention of divulging everything about her, not even to him, his trusted right-hand man.

***

Ghost returned to her room and began equipping the gear she had prepared.

Breastplate, vambraces, greaves… While she wasn’t particularly accustomed to wearing them, she had trained with such equipment on occasion, allowing her body to adapt without impeding her movements.

Once she had them on, she lightly bounced to ensure they fit properly.

Floating… Gliding… Her movements felt weightless, with only the faint sound of her clothes brushing against each other.

As she confirmed the disparity from her usual attire, she adjusted herself to the added weight. She fastened a short sword to her waist and tucked two daggers into her belt. Then she concealed throwing knives around her chest and shoulders.

Her actions were precise and seamless as she positioned each item in its rightful place.

She packed the remaining belongings into a backpack and slung it over her shoulder. Once again, she lightly bounced to ensure everything was secure.

“Everything is in order… Time to go,” she murmured as if giving herself an order before leaving the room and heading outside.

***

After Lord Curtis and his companions set off, Ghost discreetly departed from the capital as well, effortlessly evading any attention. She proceeded ahead, maintaining a low profile throughout her journey.

Along her route, she arrived at a town and got in touch with Ted, a guild member assigned as a liaison, to relay Greg’s instructions. After that, she resumed her journey, eventually reaching the entrance of the ruins Lord Curtis was heading to. The ruins were nestled within a forest to the northwest of the capital.

The ruins… are alive.

Evidently, a natural collapse had taken place, exposing a cave entrance on the fractured mountainside. Further inside, a metallic door stood, adorned with ancient magical inscriptions and intricate patterns that emitted an enchanting glow.

Beyond that door, Ghost could sense the presence of numerous creatures. Some seemed to be of humanoid nature, while others were undoubtedly larger in size.

“Waiting for their arrival might be the best approach,” she whispered, deep in thought.

While Ghost undoubtedly excelled as an assassin, her expertise primarily revolved around dealing with human adversaries. When confronted with monster larger than humans, her usual methods often fell short.

Given the circumstances, it would be difficult to eliminate the monsters while also maintaining a strategic advantage for a surprise attack. So she decided to retreat from the entrance and silently vanished into the depths of the forest.

Her objective now shifted towards reaching a prearranged rendezvous point where she was set to meet Ted.

***

Author’s Note:

The man discovered, for the first time, the fear that comes with knowing.

Faced with a relentless girl who persists even with that knowledge, all that can be offered are prayers.

And now, the moment of confrontation approaches.

Up next: Inhuman Being

Nevertheless, it assumes a human form.