"It took you quite a while to wake up," Ruth remarked. "Well, if I were you, I wouldn't be eager to wake up either with such beauty in my arms."

From Eric's voice, she gathered that he hadn't gotten up yet.

Eric sighed. "Do you know how the antagonists in novels usually meet their end?"

Ruth paused momentarily and asked, "How do they meet their end?"

"They meet their demise from talking too much. Anyway, what's up? Have you reached Salt City?" Eric asked.

The previous night, Eric had learned from Pierce that Ruth had arrived in Salt City with a group of grandmasters from the Combat Department.

"Yes, we're in Salt City now," Ruth replied. "We're gearing up for our operation after a short break. If you're not busy, lend us a hand."

It was clear that the Combat Department had acquired some information, as Ruth wouldn't have made such a request otherwise. Given the circumstances, Eric couldn't decline.

Dealing with this group of people could bring peace to Salt City.

-

After brea