The Skeleton Soldier Failed to Defend the Dungeon

"Out of the way." The woman wearing the fractured mask stepped forward.

The other phantoms, all clad in white masks, took two steps back as she advanced one. Even though five had withdrawn, the pressure in the room intensified.

"What special order are you talking about?" she asked.

"It's from the duke, of course."

Hearing that, one of the phantoms made a low and derisive scoff. Laughter rippled outward, contagious. All five chuckled behind their masks.

The masked woman at the front sighed, visibly annoyed. "Which duke, exactly? Hm?"

The atmosphere shifted, but I stayed the course.

"There's only one duke known as the maiden. Are you asking because you don't know?"

Her lips twisted.

I pressed on. "If she finds out you're interfering with her mission, she'll have your heads."

"Hah. Even your lies are…"

She removed her mask. A pale face,...