The Eminence in Shadow: The Dark Swordsman

Chapter 2: Pursuit of Shadows

My first step in this world was gaining knowledge as much as possible. It seemed that along with my young body I was gifted with quick adaptive abilities and I was a quick learner.

My schedule was packed, but I knew that I needed to finish this mission as soon as possible. During the day, I read books and practised my magic skills. It was hard at first, but once I got the hang of it, I managed to do pretty well. I can say that I grew fond of my wind-type magic. The sensation of controlling the air around me and conjuring gusts was exhilarating.

During the night, I dedicated myself to honing my sword skills. Sometimes I couldn't help but wonder if I made the wrong choice by not continuing my kendo practice with my uncle. However, I was grateful for the skills I had developed in games like SAO, which honed my swordsmanship. Despite the challenges of my small child's body, I could already see significant improvements in my abilities, and it gave me hope that I was on the right path to confront the enigmatic Cult of Diablos.

My power seemed to grow day by day, and soon enough, I noticed I wasn't the typical ordinary kid around here. Concealing my true power became my best option. Unlike SAO, where I could hide my data and personal info, in this world, I couldn't do it that easily. It was crucial to maintain a low profile, as I knew that the cult's eyes could be anywhere, watching for any sign of a threat. So, I continued to train and study, all the while carefully hiding the true extent of my abilities.

One day, after saving a merchant from a bandit's attack, he expressed his gratitude and offered me the opportunity to choose anything from his inventory as a reward. With great care, I selected five unique rings from his collection. These rings possessed the extraordinary ability to seal any power, and I saw their potential immediately. Quietly and discreetly, I harnessed the rings' magic to conceal and safeguard my true abilities.

After a month, I was prepared to start my mission, determined to uncover more about this enigmatic Cult and its mysterious goals.

POV end...

Kirito walked through the bustling market centre of the city. He was cautious of any suspicious activity and keenly aware of the conversations and rumours that swirled around him. The market was a hub of information, and he knew that he needed to gather any leads or hints.

As Kirito strolled through the market, he couldn't help but overhear a hushed conversation among a group of men nearby. They spoke in low tones, their faces tinged with worry.

"We need to find some sacrifices soon," one of them murmured, casting furtive glances around.

Another man nodded in agreement, his voice equally discreet. "The cult won't tolerate any delays. We'll be in deep trouble if we don't meet their demands."

Kirito's heart raced as he realized that he might have stumbled upon a crucial piece of information. Sacrifices and the cult's demands piqued his interest. He discreetly continued to listen, hoping to gather more details.

Kirito, sensing the importance of the conversation, decided to get closer, all the while maintaining a cautious distance. As he subtly moved closer to the group of men, he kept an ear on their conversation.

Just as he was about to catch more of their discussion, a girl's voice pierced through the market's noise, shouting loudly, "Make way! Open the path!"

Kirito was caught off guard by the sudden shout and turned to see the source of the commotion. As he looked in the direction of the voice, he saw a young girl carrying baskets filled with various meats, rushing through the crowded market.

Before he could react, in the blink of an eye, the girl collided with him. The baskets of meat and the young girl tumbled to the ground, scattering cuts of meat in all directions. Kirito, surprised by the collision, quickly extended a hand to help her up.