Stage Two of the Maze had begun for some groups, while others were still trapped in the first stage. A few made a choice they believed was clever—betraying their comrades and taking the door that promised an immediate exit instead of facing the stage itself.
Of course, they were wrong.
Ezra's earlier theory proved correct. The moment those people entered that door, despair was the only thing waiting for them.
A full colony of Silverback Dire Wolves emerged. Their numbers ranged from fifty to over a hundred. Among them were Flankers, Scouters, and Chasers, and behind them moved the Alpha Pack, led by a High Alpha whose presence alone crushed morale.
For a Binder Alchemist, surviving such a swarm was impossible. Even a Novice Alchemist stood no chance alone. At minimum, four Binders working together might survive, and even then, with losses. For Novice Alchemists, thirteen were needed just to win, and casualties were guaranteed.
