Two years had passed since the war with the demons had begun—two long years filled with treachery, fear, and constant battles that left the kingdom of gaskga on the brink of collapse. In a desperate bid to forge a stronger alliance, King asher summoned his daughter, Princess Yue, to arrange a marriage with the Prince of Andreas. While the thought of an arranged marriage dulled her spirit, Yue accepted the kingdom's survival outweighed her personal desires.

The ongoing war made it difficult for the nobles to remain independent, as loyalty appeared more fragile than ever. Even amidst the turmoil, the king's priority was clear protect the realm. Knowing their knights were tied to the defense of the kingdom, he recalled Sandra to devise a different plan to escort the princess safely through the perilous Jungle of Carvia.

"Sandra," the king commanded, "find mercenaries who can ensure Yue's safe passage. We need the best."

His voice was firm, and Sandra nodded, her mind racing through the options. After years in the guild, she knew of a team notorious for their recklessness, yet they always managed to succeed against overwhelming odds. They were unpredictable but capable.

The next morning, Sandra set off to find Simon, the leader of the Mecc Team—a rugged band of mercenaries known for their unconventional methods. As she entered the bustling hall of the guild, the familiar scents of sweat, smoke, and ale filled her senses. She spotted Simon at the far end of the bar, his scruffy beard and disheveled appearance telling tales of late nights and emptied bottles.

"Hi, Simon. Long time no see," she called out, a teasing smirk playing on her lips.

Simon turned, a mock look of surprise lighting up his face. "Oh, God. Why is my beautiful ex-wife here? Did you miss me already?"

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Sandra shot him a withering glare, raising her middle finger in response. "F*ck you, alcoholic."

He chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "So, what brings you back to this lovely establishment? Surely the knights aren't paying you enough to become an adventurer now."

Sandra took a moment to collect her thoughts. "I need your team to escort the princess through Jungle Carvia. You'll ensure her safety from monsters and thieves alike."

Simon's expression turned serious. "The Jungle is swarming with high-level monsters and demons. You know our team is the most likely to perish first in a war."

With a sigh, Sandra pressed her lips together, trying to convey her trust. "I know, but you're the only one I can rely on. Out of everyone, I trust you the most. Will you do it?"

A fit of laughter escaped his lips, though uncertainty clouded his eyes. "Damn, this is why I hate you, Sandra. You always use your charm against me." He looked up with a calculating gaze. "What about the payment?"

Sandra raised an eyebrow, knowing he'd try to negotiate. "Three thousand gold pieces for each member, plus five hundred for me."

"Ha!" he scoffed, shaking his head. "Five thousand for each and a thousand for you. What do you say, darling face?"

"Okay, fine." She exhaled sharply, knowing he would push her. "But I know you've always hiked the price. Let's meet next week at the gate. Don't be late; I can't stand looking at your face for too long."

As she turned to leave, Simon sighed internally, knowing all too well that this task wouldn't come without its challenges. "Ishi, I know you're there," he muttered under his breath, peering into the shadows of the rooftop.

A figure emerged silently, a young boy with an intimidating presence. "Don't show yourself during this mission unless the princess is in real danger," Simon instructed.

Ishi simply nodded, vanishing again into the darkness. Simon couldn't shake the sense of dread forming in his chest. He had recruited the boy two years ago for his skills, a talent for stealth and combat that made him a significant asset. Yet, Simon also recognized the predator lurking within—a force that might tip the mission into bloodshed.

"Let's hope this goes smoothly," he murmured to himself, raising his tankard to take another swig of beer.