The morning mist still hung over the plains when a sudden clamor broke the stillness.
Footsteps thundered down the dirt road—dozens of them—accompanied by the ragged gasps of men running for their lives.
"What's gotten into them?" one of the guards muttered.
Standing by the roadside, Liyi Yi narrowed her emerald eyes and turned toward the sound. A group of hunters was racing toward Amestris City, their faces pale and drenched in sweat, as if death itself had been chasing them.
Something was wrong.
"Gather everyone," Liyi Yi said sharply, her tone leaving no room for hesitation. "We're going into the city. Now."
"Yes, ma'am!" Her retainers scattered, urgency breaking their calm composure.
As the others moved, Liyi Yi remained still for a moment, her gaze fixed on the horizon.
"Carson… you better come back safe," she murmured under her breath.
