The journey ahead remained shrouded in silence. As they ventured deeper, the forested foothills around them gradually took on a primitive, isolated air.
Shrouded in thin miasma, enormous trees and thickets occasionally concealed flickering black shadows—magical creatures that dwelled deep within the Forbidden Forest, all of them highly dangerous species.
Yet these wild creatures did not choose to attack. Magical creatures living in the wild possessed keen instincts; they could sense the aura of destruction surrounding the wizard floating ahead. Besides, Centaurs were unquestionably one of the dominant forces in the Forbidden Forest. Even the terrifying Acromantulas were no match for them.
At last, the group arrived at the territory once held by Greyback and his followers.
A fallen giant tree and a small stone hill formed an inconspicuous doorway.
Amosta slowly descended to the ground and looked toward the Centaur Elder, Horn. Understanding his meaning, Horn reached into his mane and felt around for something.
"Mr. Breen—"
Firenze hesitated. He stepped over to Amosta's side, and Amosta could see the young, powerful Centaur's rugged face was filled with words left unspoken.
"Oh, what is it?"
Amosta asked gently.
"Um, it's nothing. I—"
Firenze noticed Ronan casting him a warning look, which made him hesitate even more. After pawing at the ground a few times with his forehoof, Firenze asked,
"Is Potter's boy doing well lately?"
"You mean Harimar?"
Amosta smiled at Firenze.
"He's doing well. I mean, he's growing up healthily. But Firenze, that probably isn't what you wanted to ask, is it?"
"Firenze!"
Ronan barked in a low voice. Horn, who had taken out the key, also turned back to look at the uneasy Firenze.
"You're right, Mr. Breen—"
Ronan's blunt warning did not make Firenze back down. Though deeply troubled, he still gritted his teeth and continued,