The assassin laid there. Then he sent a message to HM.
"... Commander..."
"Yes? What happened?!"
"I'm sorry... but we've failed you... the offenders... they killed us off... But... we wore them down... and..."
"And what?!"
"... we... captured the target... we fulfilled that end... of the mission..."
"... you... all of you... you did well. Rest easy. You are dismissed from your duties."
"... Thank... you... comm... an........ der......."
The assassin then died. Meanwhile, the other assassin carrying the merchant had finally reached Regius.
"My apologies. Do not take this personally, but the questioning room is to be secret."
The assassin then put a poison rag to the merchant's mouth, knocking him out. Then, in the town infirmary, the assassin was being treated. HM rushed in.
"Quickly, give me a report!"
"Yes sir." One of the healthy soldiers said. "The staff in the center was a bomb, sir. It was nothing but a mere hindrance. It was set to explode after it moved. Unfortunately, number 32 was the victim here. The other six went on fighting."
"I see. Well, I'll be taking my leave now. It has caught my attention that one more assassin has taken off because they have captured a target. Please, get better soon."
HM exited the infirmary. Damn! Squad three was one of the best ones! Oh, nevermind that! Sidna can take care of them, next. Or perhaps Vox. Either way, I cannot risk sending another squad just yet.
He headed to the questioning room to meet the merchant and eventually, Otori.



