The Cycle of Oppression and Rebellion... Rebellion Breeds New Life!

The address Verillion had recorded on the Human Skin was in the lower levels of the Skullcrusher Corridor, in the second tier of the Dark Killing Ground: the Meat Hook Black Market!

The Meat Hook Black Market was a large, derelict warship, suspended beneath the Spinal Corridor. It was famous for the countless metal meat hooks hanging from its rusted bridge girders, where troublemakers, debtors unable to pay, and slaves were strung up,

left to dry out and die.

Thick, foul-smelling blood dripped from the densely packed hook tips, splattering the ship's outer armor and the makeshift floor below to form a sticky, reeking river. Giant fans and ventilation ducts all around blasted out scorching steam, keeping the stench of decay perpetually in the air.

Alvin frowned slightly and covered his nose. "They're here?"

"That's right, Lord Alvin." After being taught a lesson with a couple of punches, Corillion had become exceedingly deferential and humble. It was hard to tell whether he feared Alvin or feared being unable to repay his debt and getting torn apart by his mentor.

"They're always in the Meat Hook Black Market. Only when they need 'medicine' each month does my mentor send me here to meet with one of them," he said obediently.

"If they know your mentor, why don't they stay up above?" Alvin asked, puzzled. "And Lord Verillion doesn't exactly look like a great philanthropist who'd give them medicine for free."

"Of course it isn't free, Lord Alvin." Corillion shook his head. "There's a price. Whenever someone wins consecutively in the Skullcrusher Corridor arena, my mentor has them take care of that person. That way, the arena can ensure a steady stream of income without having too many 'escapees.' Their return also becomes a talking point, drawing more nobles to the Skullcrusher