Chapter 200: The oblivious observant (2/2)

”Much stronger. They have thick, dark-colored skin, which itself could pose a serious threat against most. They are huge, bulky, musclebound creatures. Their physique is made to dish out as much damage as possible. Whilst they are not the brightest bunch, you should never underestimate them, especially when it comes to combat. They are born from violence, as soon as they can walk, they are immediately thrust into their cruel world.”

Turning her head away from the forest, she looked at Aiden as her face revealed a knowing smile. Before he could speak, she continued.

”You might think that humans are just the same, scheming against their own, and killing each other… But they are nothing compared to these violent creatures. Only the strongest and cruelest can survive their childhood. Most of their children die during their early years, either killed by their peers in a scuffle or during combat training or end up being eaten by the various predators or even by their own elders.”

Giving a sigh, she revealed a wry smile as she continued.

”Still, this isn't even their worst trait. Similar to their weaker counterparts, the goblins, they…” She gave another sigh, and while shivering at the mere thought she still continued. ”Let's just say, their violence doesn't end with killing and eating their foe. They can be very… basic when facing a female of any of the hundreds of the… ehrm, 'compatible' races.”

”What do you mean?” Not understanding what she meant, he continued asking, although he noticed the uncomfortable look on Sarah's face, he still wanted more clarification. If they are not killed or eaten, what fate would await them? Why is it worse than those?”

Seeing the genuine curiosity in his eyes, Sarah could only sigh and lament about this naivete of his towards the world. So pure, so untainted, such a miracle to remain like this and not be corrupted by the darkness.

”Let's just make sure we are not seen and if we are, we quickly kill off any orcs we see, okay? We do not want them to alert their kin and ruin our chances of gathering information.”

She decided to drop the subject, not really wanting to go into more detail than she already has. Looking ahead, she pointed towards the distance where a simple-looking coach could be seen with a pair of horses.

”There! That's my people there! Let's go and have them give us the report!” Sarah spoke, breaking the slightly awkward silence that ensued between them after their talk. Increasing their speed, they quickly approached the roadside coach, where a group of three figures could be seen waiting at the side. One leaning against the carriage, whilst the other two were sitting on the ground, maintaining and cleaning their weapons.

They soon noticed the approaching familiar figure, and jumped up, looking reverently at their arriving mylady.

”Young Mylady, it's an honor to see you!” The group yelled out reverently as soon as they were in hearing range.

Nodding at their greeting with a smile, Sarah waved her hand and asked.

”What's the news? Tell us, what did you guys find out?” However, looking around, she seemed to be looking for something or someone. Not finding it, she looked at the trio and asked with a serious and slightly worried tone.

”Shouldn't you have one more with you?”

They did not answer their question immediately but looked at the long, black-haired aloof-looking youth at Sarah's side. They didn't know who he was after all and the topic they were about to discuss would be a very delicate matter.

Noticing their gazes, Aiden remained nonchalant, uncaring. He turned towards the forest, his golden eyes seemed to scan the distance. He did not speak.

”Miss, is he…?” The man on the right, who was leaning against the carriage earlier leaned closer to Sarah and whispered in a low-volume.

”Don't worry, he is with me! You can talk in front of him just as you would in front of me.” She gave the order and turned towards the other two. ”Now then, where is the fourth one? Shouldn't all of you be back by now?”

”He…” The man on the right spoke up once again, acting as the senior amongst their scouting group. ”He is still in the forest, doing one last round of recon. He said he spotted something unusual, and wanted to check it out before you arrived… He should be back so-” He said but was interrupted when the previously silent youth spoke up abruptly, startling the group with his words.

”He is in combat currently.” Turning around, he looked at Sarah, looking at him with the same uncaring manner as he usually did. ”If you want to save him, we should hurry, I doubt he can hold out for long.”