Rescuing everyone within an hour was more than Annan and Free City could manage alone.
Annan needed help.
Skeleton King Leonäfa, Mr. Swaro, and Dean Breichim. Once again, it came down to those three.
Annan explained the situation and pleaded, "I know you all have your own affairs, but right now, you're the only ones who can save them..."
"For once, you've summoned us for something worthwhile," Mr. Swaro said with a snort.
"As dean of the Magic Academy, I consider every mage my student," Dean Breichim said with a warm smile.
The Skeleton King was more direct. "Don't feel guilty. We wouldn't have given you the talisman if we weren't on your side."
"Perhaps it's time I took that talisman back," Mr. Swaro said coldly.
Annan was nearly used to Mr. Swaro's Snape-like barbs. "Please stay in Free City and watch for a demon attack."
"What are you planning?" The Skeleton King could tell Annan had an idea.
"The Dark Rift is too vast, and it has countless branching paths. We could go in and never find a soul. I need your undead army."
Annan was counting on the Skeleton King. He hoped the king could send an undead army flooding into the Dark Rift, spread it out to find the people in the caves, and bring them back.
Nanako's attention should be fixed on the Demon Gate. She would not notice skeletons running all over the place. High Mountain City would keep attacking at the same time, giving the Red Dragon sorcerer the impression that the humans had discovered nothing.
"That won't be difficult. There are plenty of bodies scattered across the battlefield. But are you sure you want to disturb the dead?"
The Skeleton King found it strange. In his era, the living treated remains with reverence.