Lando, standing beside Dr. Finch, strained his eyes against the shadows. Who was that mysterious figure they'd just glimpsed? The rustling of bushes and undergrowth filled the tense silence, causing Lando's grip to tighten on the hilt of his sword, preparing for whatever might emerge.
Rylie burst forth from the dense foliage, closely followed by Meredith. "Did anyone see a man out here? Dressed ridiculously in pink?" Rylie's voice was laced with urgency. Lando quickly responded, "Yes, I did!"
Nodding with affirmation, Rylie gestured to the bushes. Emerging next were Garza, a visibly wounded Salazar, and then Kayla. Rylie's brow furrowed with concern. "What happened out there? And where's the bag with the Raglers?"
Meredith's expression darkened. "We lost it. Our boat got ambushed by alligators." Drawing a deep breath, Garza added, "The flowers... they're gone too. How's Miller holding up?"
