The Queen Who Fights Back (by Lily Hastings) novel Chapter 65

Chapter 65

In the harsh and unforgiving world of mercenaries, death was as common as the rising sun. It was an unrelenting reality that shaped every moment.

Nova had claimed her place as the mercenary king, a throne built upon the sacrifice of countless loyal comrades. Her ascent was paved with blood and lives lost in battle, a grim testament to the brutal world she ruled.

In a place where people fell every hour, the warmest greeting anyone could offer was a simple, heartfelt, “You’re still alive.”

The instant Ghost-Hammer’s boots hit the ground, his battle-honed instincts surged to the forefront. Unlike ordinary people who might freeze or panic, he remained calm—panic was a luxury that cost lives on the battlefield.

His muscles coiled, prepared to strike back at any threat—but then he saw a face he hadn’t laid eyes on for six months. Immediately, every defensive barrier he’d built crumbled away.

“Boss!” His voice cracked with a mixture of anger and joy. He looked up at Nova, grabbing the hand she extended to help him to his feet. “I knew you’d be here!”

In that moment, the fierce warrior who had just stormed onto the campus transformed into the most devoted ally. The intimidating figure became a loyal partner, a stark contrast to the fierce intruder the students had witnessed seconds before.

The crowd of students stood frozen, their expressions a blend of shock and disbelief. They had seen Nova bring down the giant with a single, effortless move. Now, hearing her say, “Really glad you’re still alive,” left them utterly baffled.

Everyone was thinking the same thing: “Who greets an old friend like that? And why does that brute call Nova ‘Boss’?”

Their unexpected reunion left the students speechless, their jaws practically hanging open. “That guy… even the three prom kings together couldn’t beat him. And yet Nova just took him down by herself.”

None of them could comprehend the meaning behind Nova and Ghost-Hammer’s exchange. All they saw was her effortlessly slinging the massive man over her shoulder, a display that sent chills through them.

“Impossible… How could this be? Someone the three couldn’t handle even together… And Nova actually…” Claire murmured, her face draining of color.

Jealousy gnawed at Claire’s heart. Not only had Nova attracted the attention of a dangerous figure from the black market, but she had also surpassed the three top students. It was a bitter pill to swallow.

“Nova’s… really that strong?” Hannah asked, her voice barely steady as she swallowed hard.

Though resentment still lingered in Hannah’s heart—resentment for the pain Nova had caused her family—she could no longer deny the undeniable truth. This was the last flicker of her stubborn defiance.

Jessica, one of the school’s popular girls, maintained her composed smile. She showed neither surprise nor fear, her elegance and poise unshaken by the unfolding scene.

Sophia, who had followed Nova to the rooftop, lost sight of her for a brief moment. When she spotted Nova again, she saw her effortlessly throwing the giant man to the ground.

Though Sophia couldn’t hear what they were saying, her hand flew to her mouth in shock. “Oh my! Nova…”

The trio of Zane, Maxwell, and Ethan were the most deeply affected. They had firsthand experience with Ghost-Hammer’s formidable strength, and now, watching Nova take him down in a single move, they swallowed hard in unison.

Nova, however, paid no attention to their stunned reactions. What truly surprised her was that Ghost-Hammer had come directly here, without hesitation. She gave him a slight nod. “Let’s find somewhere to talk.”

Six months had passed since she left the Bloodblade Mercenary Corps. During her time isolated on Devil’s Isle, she had missed too much. Now, she needed to catch up with Ghost-Hammer.

“Sure.” Ghost-Hammer shot a sharp glare at the surrounding students before nodding firmly.

Nova turned and strode away, one hand casually tucked into her pocket, with Ghost-Hammer trailing closely behind her.

Recalling the time she had been hunted by Interpol six months ago, she suspected Snowfang had leaked her location.

Nova chose not to burden Ghost-Hammer with the details of her time on Devil’s Isle. “I’ll get to the bottom of this,” she said coldly. “If Snowfang really betrayed us, he won’t get away with it.”

There was only one fate for traitors: death. Even if Snowfang had been loyal to her for seven or eight years, she would show no mercy.

Nova added, “For now, lay low. Stay quiet and cautious. It’s not the right moment yet. Wait for my orders.”

She never fought unprepared. Returning to the international stage too soon would expose her position and draw the attention of Ray and the guards of Devil’s Isle, trapping her between threats from both inside and outside.

Suddenly, Nova’s sharp gaze snapped toward the staircase. “Who’s there?”

Moments later, Zane, Maxwell, Ethan, along with Hannah, Claire, and Jessica, emerged from the stairs.

They hadn’t overheard the earlier conversation, but their eyes were locked on Ghost-Hammer.

Finally, Maxwell broke the silence. “Nova, who is this guy?”

All six leaned in, eager for an explanation.

Before Nova could respond, Ghost-Hammer smiled warmly and said, “Hey, you must be her family, right? Nice to meet you. I’m her former colleague.”