Chapter 72

However, Toby and Ray weren't so easily convinced. As they neared the city gates, their expressions only grew more serious.

Finally, as they approached the gates, Ray spoke up, his tone grim. "Something's wrong."

"What do you mean? The walls and gate are intact," one of the knights said, puzzled.

"There are no people," Ray replied flatly.

"What are you talking about? There are guards standing right there," the knight pointed toward the sentries.

"But nowhere else," Toby chimed in, scowling as he scanned the city walls. "There's no one patrolling the walls, and I don't see anyone out in the open between the city and the horizon. I may not know Valtor well, but for a bustling city like this, we should have seen at least some people coming and going by now."

"…!" The knights finally realized the oddity. While the city's walls and gates appeared untouched, there were no signs of life. No travelers, no merchants, no movement—nothing.