"Of course not," Lin Mu said at once. "There will be no sacrifices. I already have an alternative method in mind, but I cannot attempt it yet. First, we need to collect the other components, especially the wood. Once that's done, I can work on producing the tar safely."
The Elder Ice Drake rumbled in approval. "Then let us waste no time. What must be done, should be done swiftly."
Lin Mu nodded and turned back toward the marsh. "I will handle the collection. Stay here and maintain your distance. The Death Obscuring Torch should keep me safe while I gather what we need."
Before anyone could protest, he stepped forward once more, igniting the torch again. The gray flame shimmered faintly, and as he entered the mist, the darkness flowed aside like water around a stone.
Within moments, he was gone from sight, swallowed by the haze.
Inside the marsh, the atmosphere was suffocating.
