This time, it was finally over.

Roland supported Sasha, eyes fixed on the motionless Lionbite Shark, and let out a quiet sigh of relief.

They had actually slain an A-rank monster.

Truly unbelievable.

No—truthfully, by their original strength alone, they were far outmatched. Without Faith Power, without Sasha’s overexerted punch, they likely wouldn’t have breached its defenses at all.

Roland raised a hand and adjusted the glasses on his nose.

Faithhunter Goggles…

Their power came from the people—from everyone’s recognition.

Just like the seven of them.

None could defeat an A-rank monster alone.

But united? No enemy was insurmountable!

“Hey! Everyone alright?”

Thuke emerged from the woods, supporting Autumnwater. Neither seemed seriously hurt.

“An impressive fight.”

Autumnwater closed her eyes and offered a faint smile.

Exhausted, Xue Die sank to the ground and pulled out her handheld console.

“AFK and ten thousand gold behind? …Still salvageable.”

She muttered, then focused entirely on the screen.

Agnes watched her with a subtle smile.

“Just as the intel said, Xue Die—you’re the most terrifying genius among us.”

“Likewise.”

Xue Die replied offhandedly.

Seeing everyone gathered safely, Tina finally relaxed into her usual gentle smile.

“Everyone…”

—

A crimson light erupted from the Lionbite Shark’s corpse, unleashing an ear-splitting roar.

Energy ripples pulsed across the sky.

“What is this…?”

“The Sovereign’s Call!” Agnes looked up, expression grim. “It used its soul to summon every monster in its territory.”

RUMBLE!!

The earth shook rhythmically—like standing on a trampoline.

Backs together, they scanned the surroundings.

One… two… three…

More monsters emerged from the Black Forest.

Blood-red eyes locked onto them.

“So many were hiding here?”

“In territory-based zones, monsters rotate day and night shifts,” Autumnwater explained calmly. “The northern battle drew all daytime beasts. These… are the night shift, awakened early by the Lionbite Shark’s final call.”

“What now…?”

“Flying makes us targets—and many can fly too.”

Roland took a deep breath, grip tightening on his sword.

Only one way out: cut through.

“We won’t die here.”

Tina’s voice echoed in their ears. “The Faithhunter Goggles’ success proves we’re worthy. Fortune is in our hands!”

*Fortune…*

Such an elusive thing.

But Roland didn’t dislike those uplifting words.

“Break north!”

At Tina’s command, all steeled themselves.

Roland placed his right hand on his forehead.

Mind’s Eye…

—

A white light-blade slashed down from the north, cleaving a dozen monsters. A flash broke the monster lines.

Before they could react, a black-haired man in military uniform stood before them.

Chaos erupted. The beast tide had begun!

Calmly, he spoke: “Stay close.”

No hesitation—this wasn’t the time to question. They gathered around him.

A cerulean crystal glowed in his palm.

“Teleport!”

Light enveloped them.

Monsters lunged—then crashed into empty space, colliding head-on, bleeding.

The humans, meant to be trapped like fish in a barrel, vanished without a trace.

—

Awareness returned.

They stood surrounded by soldiers.

“Temporary teleportation device, deactivated.”

Three mages dispelled the barrier.

“Well done.” The officer turned to Roland’s group. “Dungeon raiders? Targeting that Lionbite Shark… impressive.”

“And you are?” Tina stepped forward as representative.

He glanced at the emblem on her sleeve. “Young lady of Yixin Clan… Miss Tina?”

“Indeed.”

“Pleased to meet you. Jamie, Captain of the Third Demon-Hunting Squad, Blackstream Kingdom’s Spirit Eradication Corps.” He swept his gaze over the group. “Citizens of the Lis Empire—and so young. Truly formidable.”

“Captain Jamie, was the northern commotion your unit’s operation?”

“Correct. Sweeping the Black Forest. The Lionbite Shark was on our list—but you beat us to it.” He shrugged, then focused on Roland and Sasha. “Ah—you two. The ‘helpful citizens’ from the Blackstream Train Incident. Saw your report in the Lis border bulletin. Quite the coincidence.”

Roland gave a slight nod.

*So he was the one who tracked us down.*

“You look exhausted. I’ll escort you out. Need me to contact your family?”

“Unnecessary, but thank you, Captain. My companions require healing. May we request your medical team?” Tina replied with poised grace.

“Right! Medics first!” Jamie snapped. “You lot—stop playing cards! Get medics over NOW!!”

—

After magical healing, wounds were mended, though fatigue remained. The group rested in temporary tents.

Roland leaned alone against a tree, eyes closed.

Jamie approached.

“Got a moment?”

“Hello, Captain.”

“No need to stand. Just listen.” Jamie sat cross-legged, arms crossed. “I suspect… you saw the Elf before the train incident, correct?”

Silence.

*No point hiding it—vagueness invites suspicion.*

Roland nodded. “Yes. In a remote village. Miss Tina knows the location.”

“Mm. Understood.” Jamie paused, then added quietly:

“Actually… I’ve been wondering. Have some Elves already learned to take human form… and walk among us?”