As they continued forward, the dense fog around them only grew thicker, and the oppressive air of the 1,500-mile forbidden zone loomed just ahead. None of them said anything more. Whether because of fatigue, nerves, or the ever-present sense of danger that surrounded them—silence returned.
Some time later, as the squad continued forward, the thick fog ahead began to shift—wavering like smoke stirred by a faint breeze.
And then—
silhouettes.
Faint. Unmoving.
Distant shadows hidden deep within the mist, their outlines blurred and wavering.
"Are those… infernal beings?" Crown Prince Aelric muttered, instantly on alert, his hand drifting toward the hilt of his weapon. His gaze sharpened, watching the figures like a hawk.
But the old man leading them raised his hand calmly, signaling him to stand down.
"It's fine," he said, his voice quiet but certain. He didn't explain further.
The squad kept moving, their footsteps cautious but steady.
