As they walked along the winding path, Liam turned to Caelum, "During the village attack, did you notice anything weird?"
Caelum's expression turned contemplative, then grave. "It was weird,".
"There were guards stationed at the entrance. They should have been able to shut the gates in time. But after the deafening explosions, when we go outside, the enemy forces had already penetrated the village."
Recalling his earlier observation, Liam replied. "I noticed the protective runes on the outer walls were dimmed when we arrived."
Caelum's fists clenched. "The only plausible way the barriers could have been rendered ineffective, while still having the walls intact, is if there was interference from the inside."
Irys added, "Despite the apparent damages and cracks, the walls still stand. It's almost certain someone from within aided the attackers."
Fury flashed in Caelum's eyes. "Who in their right mind would betray us like this?"
