At the main gate at purified spot number 13.

Li Luo and the others stood before the light barrier, on the edge of the peaceful sanctuary. Outside, sinister, dark fog roiled, obscuring their vision.

The opacity was the crux of their fear. Who knew what lurked beyond? It was always the unknown that made one's imagination supplement the fear—and who knew one's fears better than oneself?

Jiang Qing'e's squad was calm, being familiar enough with the Umbra Cave through their years of experience.

The same could not be said for the twitchy newcomers. Past the barrier, there would be nothing shielding them from the raw...