After finally making it to solid ground, Liam forced himself to put more distance between himself and the edge of the swamp. He didn't stop immediately, even though his body urged him to. The damp, unstable terrain behind him wasn't something he wanted to linger near, not after everything that had just happened.
With Smoke's help, he managed to locate a somewhat concealed hollow at the base of one of the larger trees. The opening wasn't obvious at first glance, partially hidden behind thick roots and low-hanging growth, but it was enough to serve as temporary cover.
Making his way there, Liam finally allowed himself to rest properly after more than an hour of movement on an injured leg.
Lowering himself into the hollow, he leaned back against the inner curve of the tree, letting his body settle for the first time since leaving the swamp. The tension in his muscles eased slightly, though the ache in his thigh remained constant.
