The Return of the Hades

Feared Gangatsu

111

Hearing the name "Gangatsu," Lavinia's expression shifted. Her brow furrowed in confusion, her eyes narrowing slightly. She'd heard rumors of Gangatsu before—stories of his skills as both a formidable fighter and a healer. Yet, these stories painted a portrait far different from the man described in whispered tones by the frightened herborist.

Darien, who had been inspecting the vivid blue flowers, turned sharply at Timothy's words. He attempted to project confidence, trying to lighten the mood. "No problem. I'll just have a chat with Gangatsu," he said.

His casual dismissal masked an undercurrent of tension; his jaw was set, his eyes alight with a mixture of challenge and curiosity.

Timothy chuckled nervously, the sound more of a choke than a laugh. He wiped his forehead with a tremulous hand, his earlier apprehension blossoming into outright fear. "You don't understand, Mr. French," he said, his voice cracking. "Gangatsu isn't just a healer or a warrior; he's a force of nature