The group went on high alert the moment they heard the noise. Monar struck the ground with his staff, handing the bow to Azel, who drew the string and aimed toward the source. Marco unsheathed his sword with a frown, and Mitsuki pulled out his shotgun, aiming at the same spot Azel had his eyes on.
"Keep your eyes open," Marco said. "We can't leave any openings for them to flank us."
"Flank us…? Hah! Yeah. Monsters are still intelligent, as always. This is probably a trap," Azel added with a nervous smile.
The dark elf whispered a spell under his breath, reinforcing their protection against curses. Then, as translucent cloaks covered the group, he spoke:
