Planning

After deciding to take on Captain Hook as his assassination target, Ryan skimmed through the rest of the catalog, noting the various targets and their rewards. He quickly realized that this establishment was more than just a regular pub—it was likely a hub for the underworld in Pearl City. Given the level of organization, Ryan deduced that the Viscount must be the primary force behind it, possibly controlling a large portion of the city's illicit activities. Any other underworld group attempting to establish itself here would either need his approval or face swift destruction.

With this in mind, Ryan speculated that the pub was a den of thieves, assassins, and other criminals involved in black-market dealings.

One of the key reasons he chose Captain Hook as his target was the generous reward—ten silver coins. While contemplating his decision, he heard the door creak open. A waiter stepped inside and asked, "Would you like to order something, sir? Or have you decided on your target?"

Ryan, aware of the rules, responded, "I've decided on task number 13, but I need a few supplies."

The waiter nodded. "Understood. Here's a note—write down your target and the supplies you need. Your equipment will be ready in two days, and the task must be completed within a week. Failure is not an option, as you know."

He handed Ryan a list of available supplies along with their prices. "Since this is your first mission, you're allowed up to 30 silver coins' worth of equipment for free."

Ryan wondered whether all assassins received the same treatment or if it was just because this operation was backed by the Viscount. Though he wasn't thrilled about the strict regulations, he had no choice but to follow the rules for now. He also decided that, after this job, he would only accept one task every three months, plus the mandatory assignment, to minimize risk.

Scanning through the list, he saw that a dagger cost three silver coins. He briefly considered using a kitchen knife to save money but quickly dismissed the idea—one mistake due to stinginess could cost him his life. A sword, on the other hand, was priced at ten silver coins, which made him realize that while 30 silver coins seemed generous, it wasn't as much as he initially thought.

After careful selection, he noted down his choices: two daggers (6 silver coins), two metal forearm guards (8 silver coins), a second-hand crossbow with arrows (10 silver coins), a bottle of deadly poison (5 silver coins), and some medical supplies.

With his order placed, Ryan left the pub and shifted his focus to the next step—gathering intelligence on the Hook Gang. He needed to understand his opponent before making a move, as underestimating them could be fatal.

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The next afternoon, Ryan ventured into the area controlled by the Hook Gang.

In Pearl City, most people knew where the various gang bases were located. Many slum dwellers aspired to join these groups, and the gangs, in turn, openly advertised themselves, treating recruitment like a job posting. By showcasing their strength and influence, they attracted new members who sought security and power.

As Ryan walked through Hook's territory, he soon reached the end of the street, where he found their base—an old, run-down three-story building with no doors. The structure looked so unstable that it seemed like it could collapse at any moment. Despite its appearance, this was where Captain Hook and his men operated.

From a distance, Ryan observed the area. A few thugs patrolled the perimeter while others sat around tables, chatting and drinking. By counting their numbers, he estimated that around 30 men were present in the building. The first floor, however, stood out—it was fully furnished and well-maintained. That was likely where Captain Hook resided.

Ryan guessed that there might be fewer men at night, making it a better time to strike. He decided to survey the area further to confirm their nighttime movements.

Now, he had to figure out how to get close to Captain Hook. Would infiltration be the best method? Or should he ambush him when he left the building? Poisoning was also an option, but executing it without raising suspicion would be difficult.

The more he analyzed the situation, the more he realized how difficult this assassination would be. Hook was constantly surrounded by his men, and strangers were not allowed near him. Even if Ryan managed to meet him under the guise of business, they would quickly investigate him afterward, making revenge inevitable.

He also considered that Captain Hook was likely experienced in assassination attempts. He must have survived multiple threats to reach his current position, meaning he would have countermeasures in place.

Ryan sighed. "Maybe I made a mistake choosing a gang leader as my first target," he muttered to himself. It would have been much easier to eliminate someone who operated alone or in a less secure environment.

After repeatedly drafting and discarding plans, Ryan narrowed his choices down to two viable options:

1. Poisoning Hook at his residence. His personal quarters had fewer guards, likely only his most trusted subordinates. If Ryan could find a way to slip poison into his food or drink, the job could be completed quietly.

2. A direct attack during travel. When Captain Hook left the building, he was usually accompanied by only eight men. While this was still risky, it was far better than fighting all 30 at once. If Ryan could land a poisoned shot with his crossbow and escape, he wouldn't have to face them all in open combat.

After weighing the risks, Ryan decided on the second approach—ambushing Hook while he was traveling. A well-placed poisoned shot would be his best bet, allowing him to strike and disappear without engaging in a prolonged battle.

With his assassination method settled, the next step was gathering final intelligence—escape routes, enemy weaponry, and any knights among Hook's men. These details could mean the difference between success and failure.

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Then ext day, Ryan returned to the pub to collect his equipment.