The coachman muttered in confusion.
This road leading directly to the Imperial Capital had always been absolutely safe. Wild beasts and Dangerous Species kept far away from it, so despite having existed for centuries, it was still in constant use.
But this time, something went wrong...
"Rumble, rumble, rumble!"
The ground below suddenly split apart, and a massive monster burrowed out. It had insect-like features, resembling a scorpion crossed with a centipede.
It emerged directly in front of the carriage, as though it had planned this all along...
Staring at the enormous creature, the coachman's dazed gaze slowly traveled upward as he tried to make out its full form. Instead, he lost his balance and fell.
His body was frozen in panic. He wanted to say something, but his voice was caught in his throat, impossible to force out. Fear spread through his entire body... until he finally managed to squeeze out a few words.
"An Earth Dragon!"
The cry did not escape his mouth until several seconds later!
"I've never heard of an Earth Dragon appearing on this road!"
The guards stared at the so-called Earth Dragon with equal shock and fear!
"Hissss!"
The Earth Dragon let out a deafening roar, seeming ready to attack the coachman and the guards.
"Run!"
One guard shouted and immediately bolted. None of them cared about the carriages carrying passengers and cargo; they only fled for their own lives. Saving themselves was all that mattered.
"!!"
After only a few steps, the coachman had clearly fallen behind. The guards ran even faster than he did, and the Earth Dragon immediately shifted its target to the straggler.
Cold sweat streamed down the coachman's body. He did not want to die like this... He wanted to live! Only by living could he enjoy a wonderful