The two exchanged a quick glance. Finally, the Rank B woman gritted her teeth and said: “We… drifted here. Looking for shelter. Didn’t want a fight. And… we have no other allies.”
Ethan didn’t respond right away, but his gaze softened slightly: “Then why attack our camp?”
The Rank S man still said nothing, but his posture no longer radiated defiance. He tilted his head and muttered: “We don’t trust anyone.”
“Neither do we.” Ethan replied, not harshly, not softly, but in a tone that made it clear, this was their last chance to avoid being bound and dragged away.
The wind picked up again, carrying a few dry leaves that fluttered down onto the silent forest floor.
Stella eased the vines. Lucas withdrew his spear, but both stayed alert. Ethan tilted his head slightly, signaling the team t
