Chapter 436
Ian, too, turned his gaze beyond the outer wall. Past the black hill scattered with the tower’s remnants, a lake-like haze of ashen mist lay thick and unmoving—except for one part. There, the mist rose and fell in slow, rhythmic waves, as if something beneath the surface was stirring.
There was no visible shape, no sound, but he was sure of it—it was the shadow beasts.
“I thought they were waiting in the forest, planning to retreat without a fight,” said Hyked, watching the ripples spreading along the edge of the mist. “But it seems that wasn’t the case. If anything, it looks like their numbers have grown. This isn’t good.”
At this rate, it wouldn’t be long before the entire area was completely surrounded.
“Even so, it doesn’t seem like they can enter,” Lucia said, having quietly approached the outer wall to peer down.
Ian gave a small nod. It really did seem like the shadow beasts couldn’t step outside that mist.
Turning back to Hyked, he asked, “This domain—will it hold even if you leave it, Your Highness?”
“Not for long. It isn’t a fully formed territory. The priests will do what they can to maintain it, but at best, it’ll be a few hours before the mist swallows this place again.”
That was likely why the smile had faded from Hyked’s lips. He narrowed his eyes, stroking his chin, and muttered, “It’d be better if they chased after us instead. If not, it’ll be a disaster.”
Would it really be better if they followed us?
Ian clicked his tongue at the thought. Either way, if those beasts attacked when only the Wolves were there, the damage would be immense. It wouldn’t be surprising if they were wiped out entirely.