Deep Sea Embers

Chapter 602: The Realization of a Master Angler

Chapter 602: The Realization of a Master Angler

Thud, thud, thud.

The quiet contemplation of the introspective man was suddenly interrupted by insistent knocking at the door. He had been deeply engrossed in observing a small strand of cotton, the delicate intricacy of which had momentarily captured his entire attention. But the persistent knocking redirected his focus. He immediately turned, looking towards the source of the sound.

Using his heightened senses, he tried to gauge the intention of the person on the other side. After a moment, he confidently made his way over and unlocked the door.

In the doorway stood a figure draped in a dark robe, the hood of which shrouded his face, leaving only his mouth and chin visible in the dim light. The mans voice carried a clear tone of annoyance as he spoke, What took you so long, Richard?

I dont work on your whims, Dumont, replied Richard, a hint of disdain evident in his voice. His eyebrows furrowed as he continued, Just because the Saint favors you now doesnt mean you can boss me around.

Dumont, known to be an influential member of a group called the Annihilators, retorted with a nonchalant shrug, Believe what you will, Richard. But your recent behavior has been noticeable. Youve been overly cautious since you pulled back from the Dream of the Nameless One. The Saint has taken note. And while he hasnt expressed any concerns yet, it would be unwise to attract unwanted attention.

Interrupting Dumont, Richards temper flared as he stepped menacingly closer, his face inches from Dumonts hooded face. He hissed, Why dont you dive into that Dream yourself? Then youd know the horrors instead of just sitting here and passing judgment.

Unruffled, Dumont took a deliberate step back, maintaining his composure, Thats precisely what I plan to do. Tonight, I will be part of the chosen group to enter the Dream of the Nameless One alongside you.

Richards anger subsided slightly, replaced by a mixture of surprise and apprehension, Has the timeline changed? Is the Saint advancing our plan?

Dumont nodded, Your report on the disturbing occurrences within the Dream did not go unnoticed. The Saint believes that theres a formidable adversary challenging us within that realm. Our supposed allies have even confirmed skirmishes with this unknown foe. He gestured in a placating manner, trying to calm Richard, Put aside your skepticism and worries. Were in this together, under the watchful eyes of the Nether Lord.

Taking a deep, steadying breath, Richard replied more calmly, May the Nether Lord guide us. My apologies for my earlier outburst.

Dumont, showing a rare glimpse of empathy, responded, Its understandable. Your last missions were fraught with danger. Such traumatic experiences can take a toll. His eyes shifted past Richard to a hazy figure in the room a black, ethereal chain leading to a weakened death crow, which sat listlessly on a cabinet, Considering your current state, perhaps you should take a short break. Missing a mission or two might not be a bad idea.

Theres no necessity, Richard quickly interjected, dismissing the suggestion with a slight shake of his head. His gaze sharpened, reflecting a determination that betrayed his previous vulnerability. The Nether Lords teachings empower me. Rest assured, Ill be ready for tonights mission.

Seeing Richards resolve, Dumont gave a nod of acknowledgment. Very well. In that case, Ill pass your message to the Saint. But ensure youre prepared for tonight. Be at the assembly hall before dusk; the Saint has critical updates for all of us.

Richard locked eyes with Dumont for a fleeting second, signaling his understanding with a nod. I will be there.

Dumont chose not to prolong the conversation. He took a step back, allowing the door to Richards quarters to close gently behind him. Only when he was sure he was out of Richards direct line of sight did Dumont allow a faint smile to play on his lips. He then resumed his journey down the ships dimly lit passageway.

From a concealed alcove, another figure emerged a shorter man, his physique stocky and powerful, his identity hidden under a hood. He seamlessly joined Dumonts side.

Richard hesitated for a brief moment, lost in his thoughts. Then, dismissing it as a mere inconsequential piece of fluff, he decided not to overthink it.

He proceeded to unbutton his shirt, revealing a zipper on his skin. Nonchalantly, he unzipped it and placed the cotton strand inside against his pulsating flesh.

Suddenly, a gentle and playful laughter echoed through the room. The innocent laughter, reminiscent of a child around five or six years of age, seemed to emanate from the vicinity of the wardrobe. It felt as though a mischievous child was hiding, finding amusement in Richards earlier confusion.

The death crow, perched on a nearby cabinet, appeared to have detected something unusual. It momentarily lifted its head, casting a suspicious gaze towards the source of the laughter. However, after a brief moment, it seemed disinterested and lowered its head once again.

Did Rabbi manage to locate the cultists stronghold?

Inside the luxurious captains quarters of the Bright Star, Lucretia sat poised at her ornate vanity table. The mirror in front of her was no ordinary one; its edges were engulfed in mysterious green flames that emitted an otherworldly glow. A solitary candle, illuminating the room, flickered silently in tandem with the eerie flames. From within this enchanted mirror, the voice of her father, Duncan, could be heard.

Lucretia, her eyes meeting her reflection, responded, Indeed, the hideout is onboard a ship. But its not just any ship. Theyve managed to gain complete dominion over it. Theres evidence to suggest it houses a significant number of those formidable Annihilators. Its clearly a pivotal base for them.

Duncans austere face, mirrored in the reflection, looked visibly impressed. Rabbi has truly surpassed our expectations. Tracking down these cultists has always posed a challenge. Theyre masterful at clandestine operations, especially within city-states. Its indeed surprising they chose a ship as their primary assembly point. I wouldve never guessed.

Lucretias voice held a note of concern, The ship is an architectural marvel, but its design suggests a macabre purpose: dark rituals. Rabbi has detected a potent stench of blood, likely a byproduct of their continuous sacrificial ceremonies. A ship tainted with such malevolent energies couldnt possibly moor in any typical city-state port. The dark energies would instantly alert the vigilant Church. Theres a high probability they have a concealed port for resupplying

Deep in thought, Duncan took a moment before querying, And what of Rabbi? Is it still concealed onboard? Is its cover at risk?

Rabbi possesses exceptional stealth abilities. Unless it encounters top-tier cultists, like the one referred to as the Saint, it remains virtually invisible, Lucretia elucidated. Remember, Rabbi is an ethereal entity from the spirit realm. It can seamlessly blend with human emotions and perceptions, especially in places imbued with negative energies. The malevolent aura of the ship acts as a perfect cover.

Duncan nodded appreciatively, Excellent. Let Rabbi persist with its undercover mission. Its vital to avoid any encounter with this Saint and extract as much intelligence as feasible.

Originally, once Rabbi had pinpointed the hideout, Duncans strategy was to employ a mirror ritual, facilitating his immediate presence at the location. Subsequently, hed rapidly rally all his allies and launch a surprise attack on the cultists. Their strategy was to repeatedly immobilize the cultists before their protective demons could react. The primary objective: seize as many cultists alive as possible.

This tactical approach had garnered support, especially from Vanna.

However, given Rabbis latest revelation, it was evident the challenge they faced was far greater than initially presumed. The straightforward approach Duncan envisioned wouldnt suffice.

Recognizing the complexity of the situation, akin to a seasoned fisherman, Duncan knew he needed a more nuanced approach.