F/VoH Ch 85: Heading to the Slum Area

Ellina, Charlotte, and Rosseline walked behind Ryan, following without question. They knew that when Ryan acted like this, there was something bigger behind the plan he kept tightly under wraps.

They navigated through narrow alleys that grew darker as they went, heading toward the most dilapidated area of the city. There, old, crumbling buildings stood like dark shadows, while the streets were littered with piles of trash.

The damp and rotten smell filled the air, making their breaths feel heavy. The dim streetlights only revealed fleeting glimpses of the area's inhabitants—people who seemed like remnants of life, shrouded in darkness.

Ellina observed her surroundings with a calm expression, her hands resting peacefully at her sides. Charlotte remained composed, though her gaze was slightly wary, while Rosseline appeared a bit anxious. None of them dared to ask Ryan any questions. They knew this man rarely spoke, but when Ryan took action, there was always a reason behind every step.

After walking for quite some time through the winding alleys, they finally arrived in front of a seemingly abandoned building. The walls were cracked and covered in moss, and the windows, which might have once reflected light, now only revealed gaping shards of glass.

Ryan stepped forward, opening the door without hesitation. The three women followed him inside the building, which was illuminated only by a few flickering candles. The atmosphere inside felt heavy, as if the air itself held dark and dangerous secrets.

As soon as they entered, their eyes were immediately drawn to several figures sitting and standing in the corners of the room. Their sharp eyes scrutinized Ryan and the women with suspicion. These people looked ragged, dressed in tattered clothing, with faces that bore the marks of a hard life.

Ellina could feel their piercing gazes, making her slightly uncomfortable, but she remained calm beside Ryan. Charlotte narrowed her eyes, ready for anything unexpected, while Rosseline felt the atmosphere growing increasingly oppressive.

Ignoring the stares of the building's inhabitants, Ryan continued to move forward. His steps were steady, as if nothing could touch him. Ryan knew where he needed to go, and none of them dared to stop him.

When they reached a sturdy stone wall, Ryan placed his hand on its surface without hesitation. A powerful surge of magic energy flowed from his palm, causing the wall to vibrate softly before it began to open slowly, forming a gap wide enough to pass through. Swiftly, Ryan stepped inside, followed by Ellina, Charlotte, and Rosseline, who observed their surroundings with caution.

Inside, they stood before a grand, massive statue. Suddenly, a rumbling sound came from beneath the statue. The ground in front of them split open, revealing a path leading to a dark and deep basement. Cold, damp air greeted them as they descended the stone stairs.

Upon reaching the bottom, an unexpected sight awaited them—there, in the center of the room, a sleek black jet was waiting. This cutting-edge technology contrasted sharply with the ancient atmosphere surrounding them. Ryan approached the jet, and as he stood in front of the aircraft's door, it opened automatically with a soft hissing sound.

Without a word, Ryan stepped inside, followed by Ellina, who maintained her calm demeanor, Charlotte, who appeared calm but slightly curious, and Rosseline, who looked a bit nervous. Ryan's gaze focused on every corner of the cabin with tranquility. As they took their seats, a holographic figure suddenly appeared beside Ryan.