The three summons continued racing toward the distant city.
As they drew closer, Theo's relieved expression gradually faded.
'Something's wrong,' he thought, frowning.
Dozens of soldiers wearing yellow desert military uniforms stood outside the open gates.
Each of them already had their weapons in hand, as if preparing for something.
Theo's brows furrowed further.
'What's happening here?'
Just then, the military personnel pointed toward them and lowered themselves into combat positions.
Clearly, they'd noticed their approach. And judging by their reactions… it didn't seem like they had expected any visitors.
''Lyra,'' Theo called out.
She nodded without taking her eyes off the soldiers.
The three summons gradually came to a stop despite being several hundred yards away.
Theo slowly climbed off the tiger before helping Iris down.
Behind him, Jim had already jumped off too and moved over to help Lyra with Owen.
