Hylisi did not head toward the open path.
Instead, she turned back toward the forest, following the narrow route that cut through old roots and sloping trunks. The canopy thickened overhead, sunlight breaking into fragments as leaves layered one above another.
"This is where it begins," she said without slowing.
"To reach the Mainland Guardian Association, we must first enter the forest stream you all crossed when you came here."
She stepped over a fallen branch and continued, her voice steady, practiced.
"There is no road to the ruins. No land route. The only path forward is water."
She glanced back briefly. "Rivers alone connect the mainland to what lies beyond."
The treasure hunters listened closely.
"All of you are martial practitioners," Hylisi continued. "From here onward, you move above ground. Jump branch to branch until you reach the stream rocks."
Her gaze sharpened.
