"So? What should we do? We can't just walk in," said Kaizoku while discussing with Sylphy.
Sylphy peeked at the two guards, then ducked back into hiding.
"Of course that's impossible—they're not human, they're... skeletons? Surely they have no feelings, let alone kindness."
Continuing her words, Sylphy shared her thoughts. "Hmm... We could fight them, and with my fangs, I'm sure I could crush their bones. What worries me is their numbers—there can't be just two gate guards."
To double-check, Kaizoku peeked at the guards again before returning to hiding.
"Yep, it's impossible to fight them this close to the castle. They must have plenty of backup. We'd better play it safe for now."
Kaizoku continued, "Like it or not, we have to play the role of good protagonists, making sure they don't get suspicious or attack us."
Sylphy let out a sigh. "This is so annoying."
"Would you rather die trying? Better to play it safe," Kaizoku replied.
Sylphy had no choice but to follow Kaizoku's plan.
"Ggrrhh... Fine, let's hope this doesn't fail like before."
"Oh, come on! That was Gabriel's fault for not focusing ahead. Forget it, let's do this."
Kaizoku stood up from his hiding spot, followed by Sylphy as they emerged from behind the large rock.
The two guards immediately turned toward them. They quickly moved closer and pointed their spears at Kaizoku's and Sylphy's throats.
"What are you doing in front of the Underworld castle!" one guard spoke in a hoarse but deep voice.
Although they were mere living skeletons, that didn't stop them from speaking.
Kaizoku nudged Sylphy's arm, signaling her to let him handle the talking.
"H-Hi, we mean no harm, we're just lost travelers."
The skeleton guard responded, "Travelers, eh? You look very familiar for a traveler, and why would you come to the Underworld without reason? You should know the Underworld is one of the most dangerous places..."
Sweat poured quickly as Kaizoku worried his true identity would be discovered.
"Actually, we have an appointment with the lord of the castle? That's why we need to enter."
The two guards exchanged glances before returning their focus.
"The lord? You mean Lord Gon? Lord Gon never accepts invitations from humans. Leave before you regret it."
Growing more panicked, Kaizoku tried to calm himself.
"Yes, YES! We have business with Lord Gon, special business of cour-" Kaizoku's words were cut off by Sylphy.
"I'm the one who has business with Lord Gon. Take me to him," Sylphy said with great confidence.
The guard shifted focus to Sylphy. "Huh, you're a hybrid? I can accept that. If the human is with you, I'll give you a chance."
"On one condition—you must wait for your time to meet Lord Gon. Lord Gon is busy working, so he has little time."
After saying those words, the other guard quickly struck Kaizoku's head with the back of his spear, instantly knocking him unconscious.
Sylphy, watching Kaizoku fall unconscious, didn't react quickly enough and was also struck by the back of the other guard's spear, rendering her immediately unconscious like Kaizoku.