"Go ahead, take it. It'll be mine sooner or later, meow."
Shadow Cat watched everything unfold from afar, grumbling indignantly.
It was nearly half an hour before the man and the bird returned. After exchanging brief greetings, they showed no intention of sharing anything and nonchalantly followed Shadow Cat onward.
"Be careful. Ahead lies the territory of a group of Fudi Giant Mantises. These creatures launch sudden ambushes, and even several elders find them troublesome. But thanks to their presence, the eastern side of Nine Pools Dark Valley is extremely safe, with few outside demons ever entering. That's why these dangerous creatures have been allowed to remain here."
Gloop, gloop.
Bubbles rose from the thick, black marsh, releasing wisps of green smoke. The deadly poison would likely kill some low-level creatures before they even got close.
Fudi Giant Mantises?
Judging by their name, they were clearly territorial, primitive creatures. It was no surprise that Reilo had never encountered them during the war to invade the Surface World.
"With your strength, neither of you would have anything to fear from these primitive, ignorant creatures. But I assume you'd rather not invite trouble. I know a hidden route. Just follow me, and the chances of encountering any Fudi Giant Mantises along the way should be much lower."
"Then we'll leave it to you."
Reilo nodded.
Shadow Cat raised its tail and confidently led the way.
They flew along the marshy lakeshore for a long time. Just as Shadow Cat had said, nothing unusual happened along the way. Now and then, bubbles rose from the lake with a gloop, releasing streams of poisonous green foam.
But that didn't mean the place was truly peaceful.
At least, according to Reilo's senses, they had passed within a hair's breadth of two enormous creatures hiding beneath