Black Pine Forest.
Towering trees blocked out the sunlight, while dense undergrowth and tangled vines formed walls all around them. The cycle of life that had taken root across this land created a sealed energy field of sorts, completely cutting off the atmosphere outside the forest. After stepping into this mysterious jungle, everyone felt as though they had crossed into another world in a single step.
And that feeling seemed not to be an illusion.
"Fog?" Only after the wagon gradually slowed and settled into a steady pace did Lily crane her head around to look behind them. In her line of sight was a strange, dense fog. It lingered among the trees a hundred meters away, as thick as some kind of murky gray liquid. The mist drifted slowly with the breeze through the forest, making it nearly impossible to see the outline of Greenway's green barrier. After all, that magnificent barrier could be clearly seen from several kilometers away.
But now, they could only vaguely make out a strange shadow hiding behind the fog.
"How strange... Those imperial soldiers didn't follow us..." After calming down, Charlemagne realized something else was amiss. "No, something's wrong. They aren't the type to give up so easily..."
Vivian glanced at His Highness the Prince. "Regardless, we can finally be sure who wants you dead."
"The Black Sword Knights take orders directly from the Dragon Emperor. Unless the emperor himself gives the order, no one else can command them," Hao Ren picked up the conversation. "And judging by their kill-on-sight attitude, they've clearly confirmed your identities and were sent to hunt you down. Just what did you do to offend Your Majesty the Emperor?"
"I don't know," Charlemagne answered crisply. "To be honest, after entering Dragon Empire territory, everything completely departed from my