The city wall was built entirely of huge stones, three meters high. Above it stood two sentry posts, each manned by a burly warrior whose eagle-like eyes swept across the land ahead.
"Open the gate—we're back."
Looking up at the two burly men, Pillar shouted loudly.
"It's Brother Pillar. Open the gate."
At the sight of Pillar, the massive wooden gate slowly opened, and the three of them entered through the wall.
Inside the wall lay a village, its paths filled with passersby—brawny men clad in animal hides, children, and women.
"Look! It's Brother Pillar! Brother Pillar and the others are back!"
Seeing the three of them, a child cried out happily.
Here, beyond the village lay a world brimming with danger. Once someone ventured out, it was no different from walking through the gates of hell. Anyone who returned would receive a warm welcome from the others.
In no time at all, dozens of people had gathered.
"Everyone, go back and rest. We're back now, so there's no need to worry."
The girl called Naya looked at the crowd before her and immediately urged them.
"Naya, what's that thing Stone is carrying on his back?"
Though it was night, some among them had sharp enough eyes to spot the body on Stone's back.
"We found him in the forest. He's a human, but he was severely injured. Since he's also of the Human Race, we thought we'd bring him back and save his life."
As soon as Naya finished speaking, everyone present wore expressions of utter shock. Surrounded by blood and still alive? That was truly terrifying.
"But Naya, where are we supposed to put him?"
At that moment, someone spoke up. The Human Race's living conditions here were exceedingly difficult; carving out such a large place to live