Target Arrives

The Ancient One's image rippled gently like a reflection in water after she finished delivering her message, then dissolved into flecks of golden light that faded from the meditation room. Only the slowing magic circle and a faint trace of energy in the air remained.

Lin Hai stood still with his eyes closed, concentrating as he read through the information the Ancient One had sent directly into his mind.

"How is it?" Gwen asked with concern. She had noticed his slight frown.

Lin Hai opened his eyes, understanding dawning in them. "The location is in Africa, on a vast grassland. The Pioneer will arrive directly through a passage in space before this evening."

Though the Ancient One had sounded relaxed and said the Pioneer was not particularly powerful, Lin Hai did not dare let down his guard.

The creature had been sent by a Demon God. However "not particularly powerful" it might be, it would not be easy to deal with. More importantly, he would not be carrying out this mission alone. Gwen was with him, and he had to make sure nothing went wrong.

"Gwen, we still have some time before evening. There's no need to leave right away," Lin Hai said as he headed out of the meditation room. "Let's find Hamil first."

"Find Hamil? What for?" Gwen asked, following him.

"To beg for supplies... No, to request some equipment. We don't need offensive magic items, since our mission isn't to kill the Pioneer. But we need to be thoroughly prepared on defense. We're supposed to 'show weakness' on this mission, not actually put ourselves in danger."

Warmth rose in Gwen's heart. She knew he was worried about her safety, and she nodded. "All right."

They found Hamil in the library, sorting scrolls.

Lin Hai briefly explained the