After dawn, the morning sun rose.
But unusually, a bank of rosy clouds drifted in, obscuring the sunlight.
Soon, the clouds grew thicker and thicker, layer upon layer, until darkness shrouded the world.
The dim light made the atmosphere in Forest City oppressive.
From the Temple at the city's center to its outskirts, the people of the usually lively Forest City wore expressions of indescribable gravity and unease.
Even children too young to understand were infected by the adults' emotions and grew cautious.
This was especially true of the important figures who usually stood high above everyone else.
Now, they entered the Temple with anxious expressions, waiting for news.
Unlike the Great Marsh, who shunned the world.
The God of Forest City was far more ostentatious.
Not only had he built his Temple in the center of the city to receive people's offerings, but the entire city was also steeped in supernatural power.
In Flame City, most people knew nothing about demons.
In Forest City, however, most people had heard at least vague rumors of such things.
Of course, whether they believed them was a personal matter.
Whoosh!
Stepping out of his car, Morton looked at the brightly lit Temple before him and involuntarily drew a deep breath.
He did this every time he came here.
It helped him relieve his tension and quickly regain his composure.
But today was different!
The news he had received through secret channels left Morton unable to calm down. In fact, the more he thought about its contents, the more uneasy he became.
Screech, screech!
Just as Morton was about to step forward, a series of screeching brakes sounded behind him, followed by car doors opening.
A group of people got out, their faces carrying the same apprehension and anxiety.
As Morton noticed them,