Although Grayrock Town was a frontier town, and it had been a long time since any war had broken out, its various defensive plans were still fully in place.
Along the streets leading to the entrance of the underground shelter, the crowd moved slowly and nervously. Clerks from the town hall and conscripted militia shouted as they tried to keep order.
"Keep moving! Don't stop!"
"Keep moving! Don't stop!"
"Elderly people and children enter the inner area first!"
A heavy atmosphere hung in the air.
People carried simple bags on their backs, their faces filled with confusion and fear.
Children clutched their parents' hands tightly, eyes wide as they looked at streets that were utterly different from the festive ones they had seen during the celebrations—now grim and chaotic.
After all, it had only been a few days since the joyful celebration had ended.
The crowd moved slowly toward the shelter entrance, as though stepping into the throat of a giant beast.
"Father, Mother, Sophia, you should go in first."
"What about you?"
"Don't worry about me. You should hurry inside."
Gauss and the others were also saying their goodbyes on the street.
The underground shelter had been reinforced with magic, making it far safer to stay inside than in a building aboveground.
After all, blades and swords couldn't tell friend from foe, let alone giant catapults and other unexpected attacks. Anyone who stayed aboveground risked being wiped out at any moment.
Even after going underground, though, Gauss's family and friends would have soldiers assigned specifically to protect them.
If necessary, whether they needed to evacuate or make other arrangements, they would be among the highest priorities.
Gauss's family sighed. They understood the urgency and knew there was no time to waste with the situation so tense. After reminding him