Amid the tense anticipation inside Withered Tree Fortress, Charles finally returned with his mystical beasts.
He arrived at night.
At night, Withered Tree Fortress gave off a chilling, almost eerie atmosphere. Even though countless Serpent soldiers were guarding the stronghold and torches burned everywhere, the fortress still seemed wrapped in a heavy, unsettling air.
"You're finally back! General Sost and the others have been waiting anxiously for you!"
The first to greet Charles was Azka, who quickly urged him to meet the others.
Charles raised an eyebrow, a little confused.
"Is it really that urgent? I thought the Stellar Empire wouldn't attack for another two days. I didn't return late, did I?"
"With the latest intel we've received, the Stellar Empire could attack as early as tomorrow morning. Their vanguard troops are already very close to Withered Tree Fortress," Azka explained in a rush.
Charles paused for a moment, then quickly understood.
