Just as Brook staggered to his feet from the snow and, limping, followed the footsteps of his fellow villagers into the camp gate, a few mounted figures stood in the nearby forest, their eyes fixed unwaveringly on his retreating back.
Leading them was none other than Adela, the Sheriff of Silver Pine Town and captain of its Civilian Corps—who also happened to be one of the Demon King's pawns stationed in Silver Pine Town.
Behind him were several of his trusted subordinates, including Hephael, nicknamed the "Shield Dropper," among Silver Pine Town's militia.
As the last refugee disappeared into the camp's entrance, a look of surprise spread across the faces of several militiamen, who whispered in hushed voices.
"By Saint Sis..."
"They actually sold their souls to the Demons!"
"Good thing Lord Ges foresaw this and left those people locked out... If they had been allowed into Silver Pine Town, who knows what kind of disaster would have happened!"
