Chapter 15: Infiltration

The promise Amon made to Anna, the young girl he had encountered in the grimy alleyways, weighed heavily on him. His determination to help her burned brighter than ever as they ventured towards the heart of the Otherworlders' sanctuary. He knew they were stepping into dangerous territory, and it was time to confront the villain who had been exploiting these helpless souls. 

Anna led the way, her short brown hair and pallid complexion a stark contrast to the shadows that enveloped the narrow, winding paths. Her ragged clothes and the scars on her arms told a story of hardship and suffering. Amon couldn't help but feel a surge of protectiveness. 

Star, Skolo, and Amon followed closely. Star bounced ahead, fervently declaring, "Let's go teach this villain a lesson!" His determination to take down Valen, the oppressive leader of the so-called sanctuary, was palpable. 

Skolo, the Skeleton King, waited for Amon's command, his ethereal form blending with the dark surroundings. Amon spoke softly, "Star, Skolo, stay behind." Although Stars frustration was apparent he trusted Amon, he replied "Me and Skolo will be nearby, so whenever you need help feel free to ask."

Anna led Amon through the labyrinthine pathways of roads. They soon reached the entrance, a gate guarded by two formidable looking men. These guards bore the typical appearance of mercenaries, and their eyes were filled with suspicion as they had never seen Amon before. 

It was Anna who did all the talking. She introduced Amon as another otherworlder, claiming that he had arrived late and wanted to work for Valen. The guards, showing no empathy for the newcomers, mocked Amon and spat at his feet. His anger swelled, but he knew that maintaining his composure was essential to their mission. 

The gate swung open, granting them access to the sanctuary. As they ventured further into the heart of this forsaken place, Amon was struck by the atrocious living conditions. Crumbling buildings leaned over the narrow pathways, casting long shadows. There were children and elderly individuals huddled together, some injured and many in a state of exhaustion, their eyes vacant. 

The surroundings resembled a desolate slum, a place filled with despair and suffering. Amon's determination to end this injustice grew stronger with every step. 

As they moved deeper into the sanctuary, they encountered a group of soldiers emerging from a grand palace. A towering, bulky figure loomed ominously behind them. Anna whimpered and whispered to Amon, "That's Valen." 

Amon couldn't afford to let his anger show now. He took a good, long look at Valen, committing his features to memory. Amon knew that the battle ahead would be fierce, but he was determined to stand against this tyrant and bring hope to those who had suffered for far too long.