A terrifying enemy

In another part of the Dark Forest, just a few miles away from the outpost, Bishop Julia, Bishop Festus, and Matriarch Bianca were having a hushed conversation.

"I still don't think this is the right way to flush out the killer," Bishop Julia said while straightening her spectacles on the bridge of her nose.

"Julia, this time I agree with Festus," the Matriarch replied. "Using the students as bait is the only way. All the evidence we have shows that the killer is not exceptionally strong, just very good at stealth."

"Your students will be safe," Bishop Festus reassured. "The operation is being run by our best king-level assassins. Every student will be fully monitored at all times and protected by at least two monarchs. I don't see what can go wrong."

"Hope you're right," Julia grumbled.