Chapter 65: "Rescuing the Captives"

"What is that?" I murmured to myself as I gazed at the colossal machine being assembled in the middle of the flower field where the white pagoda stood. The man in black was still working on its construction, and I marveled at the speed with which it was being assembled. Even from 500 meters away, the machine appeared enormous, its unfinished state already measuring 10 meters in size. I could only imagine how much larger it would be once completed.

Observing the machine from above, I noticed its square shape and pointed top. Its resemblance to a communication signal tower was striking, but it couldn't possibly be one. My intuition told me that it served a similar purpose of transmitting signals, but the question remained: what kind of signals were they sending or receiving? And if my assumption was incorrect, what exactly was this enigmatic contraption?

I maintained my position atop a tree, approximately 500 meters away from the machine. By channeling my focus and energy into my eyes, I extended my visual range beyond its usual limit. Although I had considered getting closer, I abandoned the idea due to the uncertainty of whether Jonathan would detect my presence if I approached too closely. Thus, maintaining this distance seemed to be the safest option for now.

"For now, let's observe further," I resolved, redirecting my attention toward the people at the site.

When I initially ascended the tree, my gaze was immediately captivated by the imposing machine, causing me to overlook other details. This time, however, I concentrated on the people themselves, understanding the importance of ascertaining the enemy's numbers and activities.

Based on my observations, I estimated the number of individuals present to be no more than 15. Adding the five people I had previously eliminated, the total reached 20, which was a considerable force considering the significance of this location.

I was relieved that I had already dispatched the initial group of five, as facing all 20 enemies simultaneously would have been overwhelming.

As I scrutinized the movements of the individuals, something caught my eye—a group of hostages. They were bound together by chains, unable to move freely, their bodies displaying evidence of severe beatings with wounds and bruises covering their forms. The shock hit me not because of their physical state, but due to their identities: Anna, Thomas, and Captain Garz.

It was the worst-case scenario I had feared for them. I had hoped they would remain safe and unharmed. Yet, seeing them in such a vulnerable condition, it was evident that they had endured a fierce battle, resulting in their capture. Now, weakened and restrained, they were trapped in a perilous situation.

"I have to save them," I whispered resolutely to myself.

This time, I decided to leave Sarah behind momentarily as I ventured into the enemy's base alone. I couldn't determine if this was a trap meant to lure me, so it was crucial to exercise caution.

Behind me, a hollow in the tree offered ample space to conceal Sarah. With minimal effort, I covered the opening, ensuring she remained hidden. I lacked the expertise to create a more elaborate hiding place, so I could only hope that nothing would happen in my absence.

With Sarah secure, I leaped from the tree branch, landing soundlessly on the ground. Adopting a deliberate pace, I approached the area where Anna, Thomas, and Captain Garz were being held captive. Although I said "walk," it was more akin to a swift, stealthy stride—the covert movements my master had taught me, never anticipating that I would have to employ them in such circumstances.

Within moments, I reached the edge of the enemy's territory, halting my advance. Holding my breath, I attempted to minimize my presence, aware that any abrupt revelation could complicate the task of rescuing Anna and the others. Time was of the essence.

Surveying my surroundings, I navigated toward the spot where Anna, Thomas, and Captain Garz were imprisoned. My earlier aerial view had imprinted the layout of this temporary makeshift base in my mind. Its simplicity made it easy to recall.

I swiftly approached the captive area, searching for the guards assigned to watch over it. To my relief, only three individuals stood watch, spaced apart from each other, which presented an opportune advantage.

With a plan formulated, I wasted no time in executing it. One by one, I dispatched the guards with precision, ensuring each strike incapacitated them without alerting the others. In this environment where magic was rendered ineffective, my warrior skills granted me a significant advantage.

With the guards neutralized, the captive area momentarily fell under my control. Time was of the essence, uncertain whether additional reinforcements would arrive.

Having accomplished my mission, I advanced toward Anna, Thomas, and Captain Garz. Though unconscious, they appeared relatively unharmed, devoid of any life-threatening injuries. A little treatment would suffice to ensure their well-being and recovery.