"This is as far as the cars can take us," Marcus announced, bringing the vehicle to a stop at the edge of a densely forested area.
The team disembarked, gathering their packs and supplies. Before them stretched miles of hilly, treacherous terrain that would have to be covered on foot.
"From here, we walk," Emerald said, adjusting the straps on her pack. "Stay alert. The terrain only gets worse from this point."
Seraphina let out an exaggerated sigh, immediately clinging to Adrien's arm. "Darling, I don't know if I can manage all this walking. The hills look so steep."
"You'll be fine," Adrien assured her, though his voice lacked conviction.
Emerald rolled her eyes and turned away before anyone could see her expression. They'd barely started, and Seraphina was already making a show of needing Adrien's constant attention.
