Chapter 597
Declan blinked, as if the question was completely unexpected, then asked, "Are you referring to the swamplands on the outskirts?"
The other group members looked just as bewildered. Only Thesaya narrowed her brow, watching Ian as if something had clicked for her.
"Yes. Have the swamplands been abandoned, like southern Agel Lan?" Ian added, without even a glance at her.
Declan finally nodded. "To give you the conclusion first... yes. That is so. From the beginning, we never tried to defend it or claim it."
He tilted his head, as if he couldn't guess Ian’s intention. "That place was nothing more than a useless land of exile to begin with, and it borders that cursed jungle besides. A few years ago, there was even a rumor that some elves from the Empire went in and never returned."
"Then you have no idea what state that area is in now."
"Yes. But it is certain that the situation cannot be good."
Of course not.
Ian brought the cup to his lips. By now, the swamplands had surely become a demonic realm where all manner of things had mingled together. The forest where the crazed swamp fairies hid would have become even more dangerous.
"But why are you curious about the situation in the swamplands?" Declan asked carefully, watching him drink his beer.
"I have business there," Ian replied, setting down his cup.
He had to complete the White Mage quest, after all. He wasn't certain, but for now, that cursed jungle was the most likely candidate. Even if he couldn't complete the quest there, he would at least be able to get an important clue.