The group arrived at a western-looking city. The city's appearance was similar to the ancient city that Sungyoon had accessed with his portal. The buildings inside both places looked similar and worn out. However, there were clear differences between the cities too.

“… Fortress?”

One of the Connectors in the group mumbled when he looked at his surroundings. He had stepped into this city through a portal. 

The city was built atop a hill with a steep incline, and one could tell that the city was surrounded by sturdy walls even from a distance. These walls were four-layered. 

In terms of size, this city was smaller than the ancient city.

“Fortress city.”

Plu-El mumbled.

“Tiotudo is still alive?”

Her words contained hope. She had assumed her best friend was dead, but it now seemed that he could be alive. However, her comrade dashed these hopes.

“No. We still haven't found him. We have to assume that he's dead.”

“What? Then who opened the portal connecting to Fortress city? I thought only the Royal Gem and the Warrior Gem could do that.”

“I did it.”

Plu-El turned toward the voice as a shadow appeared on her face.

“Aruwen.”

“I’m...