Chapter 4216: Hidden Enemy (Part 1)

Banks of the Tikusha River, minutes earlier

Ygri remained locked in a brutal clash with Imosi, leaving Solus, Nyka, and Loma to face seven wounded—but still Life Maelstrom-empowered—Isharas. Meanwhile, Kalla escorted the fungus folk to safety.

No matter what happens, kid, stay close and hide as many spore stashes as you can, Kalla said through their mind link. I’ll protect you—but if it comes down to it, I might have to throw you under the carriage so we both make it out alive.

How is that supposed to work? the fungus folk asked, uneasy but still following her instructions.

I’m not dying a hero, Kalla replied bluntly. They’ll kill me without hesitation—but they need you alive. If things go south, I’ll use you as a shield to force them to hold back.

…That makes sense, the creature admitted after a pause. Then why the stashes?