Chapter 2: Baptism in Blood

The cold wind whispered through the dark alleys of Shadowvale City, carrying the scent of rain and death. The city never slept, but in the underworld, silence often meant danger.

Jin Xian stood on the rooftop of a rundown temple, his crimson mask hiding his face. His target for the night was Zhao Han, a corrupt merchant who sold weapons to warlords, fueling endless bloodshed. He was heavily guarded, but that didn't matter. Tonight, Zhao Han would die.

With practiced ease, Jin Xian leaped onto a balcony and slipped inside the merchant's estate. The halls were dimly lit by lanterns, and guards patrolled every corner. He pressed against the shadows, waiting for the perfect moment.

A guard passed by. In a single motion, Jin Xian struck, his dagger slicing through the man's throat. He caught the body before it could fall, lowering it silently. The path was clear.

Reaching the master chamber, he pushed the doors open. Zhao Han sat at his desk, writing on parchment. At the sound of footsteps, he looked up—just in time to see Jin Xian's blade flash.

Blood splattered across the documents. Zhao Han gasped, his hands trembling as he clutched his wound. "W-who sent you?" he choked.

Jin Xian's voice was calm. "Justice."

With one final strike, it was over. The Crimson Specter had claimed another soul.

Before the other guards could react, Jin Xian disappeared into the night. The city below continued as usual, unaware that another wicked man had fallen.

As he vanished into the darkness, Jin Xian clenched his fists. He had taken another step forward on his journey—but something still felt incomplete. There were greater forces at play, and he needed to uncover the truth about his past.