It took Ian only an instant to realize that each of those streaks was a wraith, shrieking as it tore through the air.0

Not only were they burning with a far more ominous hue, but the twisted faces at their cores—filled with rage and agony—had grown even more grotesque.0

Screech—0

They were clearly tainted with chaos. That alone explained why the wailing echoing from all directions now carried such a nauseating distortion.0

Was I too careless?0

Clicking his tongue, Ian set the heavy crate down.0

Almost at the same time, Yog whispered.0

—Looks like that one couldn’t hold back its greed after all. Your disappearance must’ve given it courage, Friend.0

Ian ignored it and started walking.0

Not just because he had already grasped the situation, but because crates stacked three high had formed a wall to the left of the rock where the entrance to the nest was inscribed.0

The crates were tall enough to block the view of the wagons entirely.0

"Ian! Ian’s back!" Thesaya’s voice rang out from beyond.0

She had clearly heard Yog.0

Even amid the ear-piercing...0