The Paladin in the Abyss

Lancelot was surprised and asked curiously:

"You've read the Scroll of Darkness before?"

"Yes, a foolish decision. As a Seeker, when one finds the Scroll of Darkness or any demon-related items, the correct move is to immediately bring them to the nearest Cult branch. But just like everyone in the Cult, I was filled with curiosity about demon knowledge," Kalalin spread his hands, "The attacking demon pulled an entire room into the Abyssal Plane, but at the last moment, the scroll teleported away from my arms."

"Uh, how did you escape from that attacking demon?"

"The attacker was a Succubus. These demons are not as keen on slaughter as others, so it seemed to have little interest in me. Anyway, I survived that attack. With some understanding of the Abyss, I managed to survive the initial days, but eventually, a Bagula Demon named Kuka captured me."

"I see." Lancelot nodded, "You mentioned you are an Explorer, what exactly does that entail?"

"The Black Cult's mission is to collect writings of Am scattered across the universe, and to continue exploring demon-related knowledge in his footsteps. The job of a Seeker is to search for items or information related to this for the Cult. This could be weapons and items used by demons or exact descriptions of encounters with them, even capturing a demon for research. The Cult calculates contributions based on the value of findings, provides rewards, and accordingly elevates a member's rank within the Cult."

"I see, so the Black Cult must be a highly respected organization."

"Uh, actually, that's not often the case. As you can imagine, the demons have a predictable attitude towards the Cult. Most of the time, a branch of the Cult, for safety reasons, must remain low-key and secretive. And because we're always engaged in demon-related activities, you can imagine how bad the Cult's image might look to the uninformed public," Kalalin shrugged helplessly, "Fortunately, the ruling class usually recognizes the role of the Black Cult, especially when a real demon invasion erupts in their territories."

"This does sound incredibly useful, but I guess you don't actually like reaching the lairs of the subjects you study."

"Indeed, those who study war don't enjoy being on the battlefield, and those who study demons certainly don't want to face them directly," Kalalin sighed again. "We are experts in theory more than practice, far less capable in combat than professional adventurers. Our greatest value is actually the knowledge in our heads, which can help adventurers correctly respond to various demons."

"You have in front of you a man who could use that knowledge," Lancelot said interestedly. "What advice do you have for fighting demons?"

"Your great sword is very suitable for fighting larger enemies like demons," Kalalin pointed at the hilt of the sword that protruded from Lancelot's back, towering over him by a head. "The most effective against demons are holy or good-aligned weapons, but such things are unlikely to be found in this plane and could attract unexpected enemies like a fire in the night. Besides that, cold iron is very effective and not so rare; it costs only about twice as much as regular weapons. It has no restriction on the moral nature of its user, so even demons like to use these weapons."

While listening eagerly on the side, Bruto suddenly interrupted:

"Are you talking about that special metal that is always buried underground, emits cold, and needs low-temperature forging?"

"Uh, yes. Are you familiar with this material?"

"That's our clan's specialty!" Bruto Frostforge said gleefully. "My dad is an expert among experts in the field of cold iron processing. Should we let Tijana know? Is there a chance to improve my dad's treatment?"

"Your father is in Twin Bridges Town as well? Is he a mercenary too?" Kalalin asked with surprise.

"No, his father works in the blacksmith forge of Tijana at Twin Bridges Town," Lancelot explained. "This guy, Bruto, didn't want to be stuck next to a forge in the Abyss for the rest of his life, so he chose to become an adventurer. Did I mention before? Our qualification as mercenaries was assessed by Tijana through the rescue of a Succubus named Grace. Although the outcome was not quite as expected, it seems we passed."

"Ah, the famous mercenary services of Twin Bridges Town! Tijana always personally tests each applicant," Kalalin exclaimed, his excitement reigniting.

"Why do you react so strongly to Tijana? Is she that famous?"

"The story of how she established Twin Bridges Town is utterly fascinating; it would take three days and nights to tell it all, and the fifth battle to defend Guardian City is considered a miracle, demonstrating her extraordinary strategy and leadership. She's simply the protagonist of a legendary tale," Kalalin said shyly. "Given her identity as a Succubus, one can't help but indulge in fantasies, and by demon standards, her demeanor towards humans could even be described as friendly. It's not hard to understand the researchers' interest in her."

"She indeed is a very charming lady," Lancelot agreed, nodding his head.

Bruto rolled his eyes discreetly.

------------------------

The group advanced along the Stygian River with Lancelot and Kalalin chatting as they walked. But after they rounded a small hill, they unexpectedly encountered a creature familiar to Lancelot.

About ten Abyssal Hounds were drinking from the Stygian River. These demonized beasts seemed immune to the deadly toxins in the water, as well as other various negative effects.

Among the pack was one with two heads, who immediately noticed Lancelot and his group.

Unlike their last encounter with these creatures, Lancelot didn't have the advantage in numbers this time, so the pack of hounds showed no signs of backing down. They glanced over, their sharp teeth bared and saliva dripping continuously, clearly deeming the human party before them as a meal sent from heaven.

Lancelot knew he couldn't hesitate at this moment; if the enemy surrounded them, it would be hard to protect everyone. He immediately drew his weapon and charged at the pack of hounds, shouting to Bruto:

"I'll handle these guys, you protect the others!"

The Abyssal Hounds charged at him with no less ferocity, but Lancelot was no ordinary knight. True Qi naturally surged from his Dantian, his Great Sword swinging at an inconceivable speed, like a tornado rising out of nowhere.

The charging enemies were like little fishing boats caught in a storm, instantly torn to shreds.

The two-headed Abyssal Hound, seeing this, let out a whining sound, and a few hounds tried to bypass Lancelot to attack the people behind him.

Lancelot thought this was bad, but as the enemies tried to flank him from both sides, despite his best efforts to block them, two Abyssal Hounds slipped past.

"Bruto! Stop them!"