The forest grew darker with each step, the ancient trees towering overhead like silent sentinels. Amon led the way, his dark energy swirling faintly around him as a constant reminder of the power he carried.
Behind him, Lilith followed closely, her resolve etched onto her face. The others moved with a quiet determination, their steps muffled by the thick underbrush.
"This is it," Gregory murmured, breaking the silence. His sharp eyes scanned the surroundings, every muscle in his body taut. "We're nearing the heart of Albaz's domain."
Kiana nodded, her bow in hand, an arrow already nocked. "Stay close. If what Aluxio said is true, the Great Tree will be protected by more than just magic."
Lilith couldn't help but glance at her father, who walked at the rear of the group. Aluxio's expression was unreadable, his eyes fixed on the path ahead. She could feel the tension radiating from him, the weight of his guilt and determination pressing down like a storm cloud.
