Chapter 1374 ()

In the thickening shadows of the mountains, Jacob felt a tumult of thoughts swirling within him, but he chose to keep them to himself. The atmosphere was charged with tension, and revealing his concerns might only serve to alarm his companions. They were already on edge, and he needed to maintain a semblance of calm.

"Can I join you?" Hector asked, his voice tinged with desperation. "If I can't, I hope that you will keep my identity a secret still."

Hector's gaze was earnest, and Jacob could see the flicker of anticipation in his eyes. It was evident that Hector viewed him as the leader among their small group, a role Jacob had inadvertently assumed through circumstance and necessity.

"All right, I'll let you join us," Jacob replied, his voice steady but firm. "In the event of danger, I hope that we'll be able to help each other out."