The dense forest enveloped them in a lush, green embrace, casting dappled sunlight that played on the forest floor like a flickering flame. A chorus of birds serenaded their progress, their melodious tunes harmonizing with the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze. The air was thick with the earthy scent of moss and the sweet fragrance of wildflowers, creating a serene atmosphere that belied the challenges that lay ahead.
Mingliang, leading the group, approached the stream's edge with cautious optimism. His eyes, the deep brown of tranquil pools, reflected a sense of hope as he knelt by the water's edge. The stream, no wider than a few strides, glistened with clarity, revealing the pebbles and aquatic plants beneath its surface. It was a sight that spoke of purity and life, a stark contrast to the demon-infested Immortal Realm they now called home.
