After carefully extracting the essence stone from the slain demon, Cliff secured the precious item in a safe pocket. The team didn't linger. They resumed their march, delving deeper into the dense forest.
Cliff was aware of the risks. Advancing so openly signaled their presence to the enemy. Yet retreating would be counterproductive, especially with a precise plan in mind. Giving up now would be too costly a setback.
Their progress was swift, the landscape flashing by in shadows and branches as they covered ground that would have taken hours on foot in mere minutes. Each member knew their task well, and the group advanced without hesitation.
A few minutes later, they arrived at a concealed clearing under the dense canopy. They slowed and stopped, exchanging silent looks of approval before nodding in mutual understanding.
