Back in the darkened forest, the atmosphere grew even more oppressive as Lyle and his companions pressed forward. The malevolent energy in the air seemed to intensify with each step they took. The twisted figures that had emerged from the shadows continued to harass them, but their efforts were futile against the group's combined might.
Lyle's spear flashed in a blur of motion, skewering multiple enemies with each strike. Nicholas's greatsword cleaved through the dark creatures with ease, their bodies dissolving into shadowy wisps upon contact. Londar, despite his earlier alarm, maintained a calm demeanor, using his magic to blast away any foes that got too close.
"We need to reach the barrier," Lyle shouted, his voice cutting through the chaos. "We can't afford to waste any more time here!"
