Pushing deeper into the fog, I continued searching, finding a few more people trapped under rubble or hiding in fear. I helped each of them out, guiding them to safety.
This place… the _Central Street Market_… it's the densest point of mana—the heart of the dungeon core is here, and with a core this massive, we _need_ to figure out how to destroy it. Leaving it unchecked could doom the entire capital.
After several more minutes combing through broken stalls and crumbling buildings, I couldn't find anyone else.
"I think most of the people fled when the fog first appeared. The only ones left were those trapped or unable to escape."
A brief moment of silence settled in the heavy air.
_Where is Miss Sera…?_
Suddenly, a faint glow pulsed from the pendant around my neck. I looked down—its engraving shimmered with a soft light.
"What does this mean…?"
Then, a familiar voice echoed in the fog.
**"Alve… Can you hear me?"**
It was Miss Sera.
"I'm over here!" I shouted back into the fog, hoping she could trace the sound—and the faint light from my pendant.
Moments later, her silhouette emerged from the thick mist, rushing toward me.
"Alve! We need to head back to the palace. It's a royal command," she said urgently.
We turned and started sprinting through the streets. As we moved farther from the dungeon core, the fog gradually thinned.
"Sir Alve!"
I turned at the sound of Princess Maya's voice. She was standing with Guild Master Kaelyn, both looking relieved to see us.
"Looks like Father is summoning everyone," the Princess said. "Miss Kaelyn's grey pendant started glowing."
"Mine and Master's too," I replied. "Let's head to the palace—quickly."
We moved together, our steps swift but cautious, until the grand silhouette of the royal palace loomed into view. Guards held the gate open, guiding us in.
"The King is waiting in the throne room," one of the knights informed us.
"Thanks," Miss Sera replied with a nod as we hurried past.
Princess Maya veered off, saying she would go find Prince Edward and Her Majesty Queen Alice. Meanwhile, we continued toward the throne room.
As we entered, I was struck by the scene inside.
The chamber was filled with nobles, their yellow pendants glowing in sync. Lady Saya stood near the center, her violet pendant shimmering. The palace healers were gathered as well, white pendants shining softly like starlight. And there, at the front—King Leontius, standing tall and firm near the throne.
Miss Sera and Guild Master Kaelyn stepped forward.
"Apologies for the delay, Your Majesty," Miss Sera said respectfully.
The King nodded. "Let's begin the emergency meeting. There's much we need to discuss."