The masked leader came to a sudden halt, his boots grinding against the loamy forest floor. In the moonlit silence, his abrupt pause sent a ripple of confusion through the ranks behind him.
Several cultists almost bumped into each other, quickly steadying themselves. They looked to him with puzzled expressions, unsure what had drawn his attention so suddenly.
But the leader didn't turn to explain. He stood still, his gaze fixed on the dark expanse ahead. An eerie silence wrapped around him, almost as if the forest itself were holding its breath.
His voice broke the stillness, soft but strained.
"…What is this terrifying energy?"
It was not a question meant for others. It was instinct, an unconscious whisper born from dread. Just moments ago, a surge—no, a convulsion—of mana had roared across the land like a silent storm. It wasn't natural. Mana didn't behave like that.
Before the thought could settle, a sharp cry broke out from behind.
"What is that—?!"
