Althea's face was filled with sorrow and worry, emotions that showed naturally and could not be hidden.
In truth, all of Darkshire was lifeless.
Not a single resident looked happy. Many wore blank expressions, while others had grown numb. This once bustling, prosperous town now held no laughter or joy.
In just a few years, Darkshire had lost well over half its population.
Once, it had been every bit as prosperous as Goldshire, and its population had even passed ten thousand. Now, fewer than four thousand people remained in the entire town. Most were humans, though more than five hundred belonged to other races: elves, half-elves, and dwarves.
"Danger is everywhere in Darkshire. Worgen, undead, and ogres weigh on our people like three mountains, crushing us until we can barely breathe. Terror, plague, danger, pain, and torment have driven many townspeople away. Those who remain are either brave warriors or elderly people, women, and children who cannot leave." Althea led Shawn and the others toward the Town Hall.
On the way, a Night Watch soldier ran over, his face full of sorrow, and reported something to Althea.
"What happened?" Shawn asked.
He could see how grim Althea's expression had become.
"More people have gone missing. Two children this time. It isn't the first time. At first, the townspeople were angry. Then they felt helpless. Now they're numb. We can't stop any of it. Those damned ogres, damned worgen, damned undead!" Althea gritted her teeth.
After bringing Shawn and the others to the Town Hall, Althea sent someone to inform the mayor, Duke Ello Ebonlocke, then said apologetically, "I have to deal with the missing children. Even though I know we won't find them, I still have to try... what if we do? Those are two lives, two young children! Please