That morning, Goblin's Grove was as lively as ever. In the fields, farmer goblins bent over to plant vegetable seeds, while a few scouts climbed up the watchtowers. In the training yard, the sound of clashing weapons echoed as the warrior unit sparred.
I inspected the crops. The fast-growing vegetables we planted a few days ago were sprouting strong shoots. In about ten days, we could expect our first harvest. Moji and a few shamans were busy checking the fortress walls with magic, searching for weak spots in the stonework.
Amid all the activity, Godon approached me, his expression radiating boredom."I'm sick of fighting empty air," he said, swinging his weapon. "I want to smell the blood of a real monster."
I eyed him for a moment. "How many do you want to take?""Nine of the best warriors. Enough for a short hunt."
I thought for a moment, then nodded. "Fine, but this time, we do it with full safety measures."
Godon quickly picked his nine warriors. Draksra and three scouts were assigned to follow them from a safe distance. Moji attached special runes to Godon's weapon and Draksra's dagger."With these runes, I can hear your voices from here," Moji explained. "If something happens, send a signal, and Jun will handle the rest."
I then laid out the backup plan. "If there's an emergency, Draksra will give the signal. I'll summon you all back here instantly."Godon snorted. "You're telling me to run away from battle?""If you die, who will train them?" I replied flatly.
The fortress gates opened, and Godon's team moved swiftly into the forest. Their footsteps faded into the trees.
Through Moji's communication magic, I could hear their voices. A few minutes later, they found the tracks of a wild boar herd. Godon's swift attack took down two large ones—more than enough to feed dozens of goblins.
But as they chased the third boar, a heavy growl echoed in the distance. Draksra, positioned on the high ground, spotted a massive shadow moving among the trees. His voice came through the rune, tense."Jun… we have a big problem."
Without hesitation, I activated Summon. In an instant, light enveloped Godon and his entire team. A blink later, they stood in the middle of Goblin's Grove's courtyard, their faces filled with surprise.
"What the hell was that?!" Godon protested. "I didn't even see its face!"I met his gaze with a faint smile. "That chance will come… but your life can't be replaced."
Moji chuckled, while Draksra remained silent, his face pale as he remembered the massive figure he had seen.
And deep in the forest, that growl still echoed, slowly fading deeper into the woods.