What they said was true. The soldiers from their city stopped advancing.
They remained where they stood, feet planted firmly against the scarred battlefield, their spears still clutched tightly in their hands.
The tension in the air did not disappear, but it shifted. What had been a forward charge only moments ago turned into a heavy, uncertain silence.
Ethan remained in place, unmoving, with Yuna standing faithfully at his side.
The wind brushed against his armor, carrying with it the scent of blood and smoke from the distant clashes.
From afar, a man approached, escorted by several members of his city team. Their steps were slow and deliberate, as if each stride carried the weight of an irreversible decision.
When the man finally stopped a few meters away, he lowered his head in a respectful bow.
"You… are their leader?"
His voice was cautious, but not trembling.
The man nodded and introduced himself. "My name is Joko. Yes. I am their leader."
