Chapter 347
Zephyr nodded, understanding that the priest’s motives might have been symbolic. "If that’s the case, then he was likely trying to elevate his standing with this figure—to secure a place in their inner circle through this act."
Determination sparked in Wulv’s eyes. "Our next step should be to identify this figure and any influence they may have on Björn’s followers. If there are others acting independently, we could be dealing with a rogue faction within Björn’s people—one with its own agenda."
Zephyr stood, his gaze resolute. "We won’t let this go unchallenged. I’ll have Terra’s guards increase their patrols and remain on high alert. Meanwhile, Wulv, if your people can track down any trace of this faction within Björn’s lands, we may be able to stay one step ahead of whatever they’re plotting."
Wulv rose as well, nodding. "I’ll inform my people at once."
Meanwhile, at the border of the Apeling Kingdom, two figures perched silently atop a towering tree. Ursula, wings faintly glowing in the dim light, sat beside Ikem, who was watching Nwadiebube and his team disappear into the distance.
"Aren’t you going to stop him? He did steal from you," Ursula said, biting into an apple similar to those in Ikem’s garden.
Ikem’s eyes stayed fixed on Nwadiebube’s retreating form. "Even if I wanted to, I can’t interfere without risking my ascension. Besides, I’ve grown bored of humans and their endless treachery."
Ursula tilted her head, curiosity gleaming in her eyes. "Still, letting him walk away unpunished—doesn’t that threaten your standing? His actions were a direct challenge."
Ikem shrugged, his gaze never wavering. "All he managed to take was a branch. The fruits themselves are beyond his reach. Mortals constantly grasp for power they don’t understand."