Chapter 355: Forbidden Light's Power

"Is... is your team capable of handling the threats of Deadwood Pass?" the merchant finally asked, his voice laced with uncertainty. "I've heard many stories about that place... rogue Awakeners, bandits, and mercenaries. It's no simple task, you know."

His assistant nodded in agreement, her lips pressed into a thin line as her eyes flicked toward the darkening horizon. "We've had escorts before," she added, "but they were usually seasoned veterans. You seem... younger."

I could feel the weight of their expectations, or rather, their lack of faith. I understood where they were coming from. Escorting a merchant through one of the most dangerous paths around was no easy feat, and here I was, barely looking the part of a competent leader.

I leaned back comfortably, my eyes meeting theirs with calm confidence.

"No, we can't, at all."