"Exactly." The man grew more animated as he spoke. "Apparently, it started a couple of days ago. Soul Power suppression across the entire Outer Perimeter dropped from thirty or forty percent to less than ten, and the killing intent has thinned out a lot too."
"All the mercenary groups in town have made their move. The Iron Wolf Group, the Blood Hand Group, the Blackrock Group-they're practically racing each other."
As he spoke, he jerked his chin northward. "I heard some people have already headed into the Middle Layer. Those who came back said even that isn't as frightening as it used to be."
Lin Yi listened, his expression unchanged, though his thoughts raced.
It started a couple of days ago?
What caused it?
Don't tell me it had something to do with me?
He couldn't make sense of it, but he cupped his hands toward the man. "Thanks for telling me."
"Don't mention it." The man waved, shouldered his pack, and headed north, muttering as he went, "Who knows whether this change is good or bad? Either way, I'll head in and make a haul first."
Lin Yi watched him leave, then glanced north toward the Ancient Battlefield.
With the suppression weakened so much, should I go back in?
Maybe I could get that stone off the Altar this time.
No, wait...
This could be that cloud of black mist's doing again.
Forget it. I'll rest in town tonight, then get out of here. I can come back once I'm strong enough to deal with that black mist.
He withdrew his gaze and strode into Looking North Town.
Rather than going to an inn, however, he headed straight for the carriage companies.
After all, that damned Ancient Battlefield had nearly been the death of him. Lin Yi didn't want