The Hero led the patrol squad, walking leisurely through the forest as if he were strolling through a garden rather than navigating a dense jungle.
The four individuals behind him, however, did not share the same ease. The damp air, dense foliage, and layered roots forced them to expend several times the usual effort with each step.
Oddly enough, even though they weren't all locals of the Holy City, they had witnessed the majestic sight of the Depraved Hero splitting the sea with an axe—a sight that should put their hearts at ease, walking behind such a Lady Saintess, regardless of the treacherous paths.
Even they believed it should be this way. Yet contrary to expectations, the patrol squad remained on high alert.
Because, though a simple glance upward would reveal the slender and leisurely silhouette of the young girl ahead, the moment their sight strayed, even slightly to notice the road underfoot, her presence seemed to vanish entirely, leaving no trace.
