As night enveloped the Endless Forest, the moon cast a silvery light over the tangled foliage, illuminating the silhouettes of ancient trees that loomed like guardians of secrets long forgotten. Li Wei and his team, weary yet alert, sat around their modest camp by the river, the tranquil sounds of water lapping against the stones contrasting sharply with the tension that still lingered in the air. The previous rustling had faded, but the sense of unease remained, prickling at their senses like a silent warning.
Suddenly, the stillness of the night was broken by another sound—a chorus of hushed whispers, followed by the unmistakable crunch of footsteps on the forest floor. Li Wei's heart quickened as he exchanged glances with his teammates, the firelight flickering in their eyes, reflecting both curiosity and apprehension. He motioned for silence, urging them to remain still.
