337 Encountering Mercenaries
Back in Lucius’ old world, most of the Lost were unintelligible creatures and did not really notice one another when attacking others.
However, for Lucius, all of the Lost in his Soul Space were capable of detecting each other and thus the Bore Shrews were able to follow the Plow Worm.
Once Lucius was done giving orders and satisfied with the Bore Shrew following them, he returned to his tent and slept.
The next day soon came with its own challenges.
At first, it was just Lucius, Kiana and Gellor’s mercenary group that was on the road, but soon enough, they encountered two groups on the way to Aisse territory as well.
Lucius took note of their attire and realized that they were mercenaries, but what surprised him was when one of the members in a group split up and rode towards them.
Kiana immediately glanced in Lucius’ direction, her hand tightening against her reins, but she chose to keep a calm smile on her face.
It was clear that it was time for them to finally act like two people in mercenary groups, and it was going to be a challenge on how to hide their identities.
“Hey, Gellor… is that you?” a man called with a huge grin on his face.
“Yes, it’s me, it’s been awhile since we’ve last seen each other, haven’t we, Harold?” Gellor greeted the other mercenary.
“You guys never take any more missions around the territory after all.” The man clicked his tongue, then raised a hand, waving at the other mercenaries. “Finch, Albus, Barty and Ariana… and newcomers. That’s a surprise, but how have you been, Gellor?”
“Good. We’re doing good. Had a lot of good opportunities in Inanis, but things brought us back to Aisse again.” Gellor carefully replied. He knew Harold, but was concerned that Lord Asher might be uncomfortable with the sudden influx of people.
“Opportunities, you say? Did you join the war against that Viscount? Heard that one was a one-sided slaughter, terrible thing, but hey, if you’re on the winning side, you’re on the winning side.”
“Well, we were preoccupied with another mission during that time and couldn’t participate.” Gellor said. “But we did hear the news.”
“Must be something big if you were unable to join. Hmm… maybe my team and I should drop by Inanis City some time soon and take missions there too if they’re that good, eh?”
“We’re not too willing to share.” Albus called out .
“Ah, ah that’s mean.” Harold chuckled. “How’s life been treating you, Albus? You still got your axe with you?”
“Always. You up for a spar, or is Artur the one who wants a rematch?” Albus grinned and waved over to the other two mercenary groups that had paused from traveling and were waiting for them to approach.
“Artur, not me. You’re too fast on your feet, but I wouldn’t mind sparring with say Ariana over here.”
“Hah. Come closer and you get the fangs.” Ariana bared her teeth at Harold.
“Play nice, Ariana.” Finch reminded. “It’s good to see you, Harold. How’s your family? How’s the wife?”
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The mercenary named Harold didn’t pay much attention to Lucius and Kiana, much to the relief of the latter.
Lucius was more than ready to engage, but it did make sense that someone who knew Gellor and his team were far more interested in catching up with them.
However, once they reached the other mercenary group waiting for them, Lucius and Kiana were suddenly at the forefront of attention.
“Ah, so you’re the ones that Henry has mentioned before.” The mercenary leader from the second group greeted Gellor, then looked pointedly at Lucius and Kiana. “But we heard that there were five members in your team and not seven. Who might be these two people be?”
“These are Lucius and Kristine.” Gellor introduced. “They’re rather recent additions, and really just are temporary here for the mission we have for Aisse territory.”
“Oh, that’s nice. Your current mission to Aisse territory must be quite important if you’re bringing in two new people.” The mercenary leader noted.
“There’s always people looking for work.” Gellor said.
“And we’re more than happy to have some people join us. Maybe Harold and the others can join us for a new mission next time.” Finch added, taking over with a careful smile.
“Now I like the sound of that.” Harold laughed. “So are you still with that noble in Inanis, Finch? How’s that working out for you?”
Finch sighed, but then replied to Harold. She glanced at Lord Asher’s way and hoped that was enough to put away the attention from them, but unfortunately, it didn’t quite work.
“So are the two of you new to mercenary work?” the man glanced at Kiana’s hands. “I must say, you guys really look like fresh blood and all that.”
“That’s… quite a rude thing to say to someone you just met.” Kiana narrowed her eyes at the man.
“Just an observation, really. Better be less sensitive. There’s all sorts of people in our field of work.” The mercenary leader smirked. “You wouldn’t know what to expect if you think everyone’s going to treat you like a flower, Miss.”
“Thank you. I’ll keep that in mind.” Kiana finally decided to say. She preferred to keep the mercenary leader’s attention away from Asher, if possible.
She knew that Asher’s makeup was good, but it was better to be wary, and the less attention on him, the better.
“And what about you? Quiet one, aren’t you? Not too hasty on making friends?” another mercenary from the second group turned to Lucius.
“The opposite of it really, but I’m selective of who I choose to interact with. It’s better to know who we’re dealing with, after all.” Lucius replied and watched the mercenary leader’s group eyes narrow slightly.
“I can’t help but feel the same as you are. I hope we get along then, Lucius.” The other mercenary said.
“Likewise.”
Lucius kept his expression calm, but it was quite clear to him that the second group were being rather strange.