“Let’s regroup here,” Theo suggested.

Leaving the collapsed Holy Church branch behind, the group quickly retreated to a spot a short distance away from the entrance to steady themselves. Having stirred up the proverbial hornet's nest, it was critical to prepare for the incoming Holy Church forces.

Harald, visibly drained after his emotional outburst during the earlier assault, focused intently on re-centering his energy.

The silence was so profound that the low hum of Harald’s energy stabilization could be heard clearly. Though the Beastlands were naturally quiet, this level of stillness felt foreboding. Theo’s senses heightened, his body tensing instinctively.

“Hm.”

It was then that Lodbrok furrowed her brow, her gaze fixed on the horizon.