Chapter 39

"We will make camp here for the night."

As soon as the words were out of the Temple Knight's mouth, Ruth leaped off Riftan's steed. Sidina chortled, evidently finding the sight comical. Maxi, on the other hand, did not feel amused at all. After sullenly staring at the back of Riftan's head, she climbed down from Rem and surveyed the ravine.

The rock walls on either side arched inward as they rose, almost obscuring the sky completely. The narrow passageway leading out blocked the violent gusts raging outside. Though it felt cramped for a party of nearly two hundred people, the fact that it sheltered them from the wind and snow was enough to make it a lavish sanctuary.

"Maximilian, can you check for monsters hibernating underground?" Anton yelled as he helped Calto dismount.

She sensed Riftan turning to look at her. Pleased by his disgruntled expression, she made a point of ignoring him and nodded happily.

"Yes."

"I'll help," Armin said, hopping down from his horse.