Morning broke fast for them, and they wasted no time packing up.
The hunt was routine by now, though none of them could deny how much stronger they felt.
Each step carried more power, and every swing of their arms or ripple of their energy reminded them of the changes the elixirs had carved into their bodies.
Arden walked in front as usual, guiding them deeper into the second zone. He had no map in hand, yet his senses tugged them steadily from one trail to another, straight toward beasts hiding behind stone ridges or nesting among the twisted trees.
Nyra and Rael followed close, restless with energy, eager for something that would test them properly.
Zephyra padded along their flank, her cerulean flames faint in the daylight but still carrying that low heat that made the air shimmer around her.
It wasn't long before Arden lifted a hand, signaling them to halt. His eyes narrowed toward the clearing ahead where the ground seemed to tremble faintly.
