Preparations were complete.
Before leaving the riverbank, the treasure hunters rose as one, adjusting caskets, ready to move forward into unfamiliar land. The air was tense, but orderly—until a sharp voice cut through the motion.
"Stop."
Hylisi stepped forward, her expression cold and unyielding.
"What kind of criminals are you?" she demanded, sweeping her gaze across them. "Have you forgotten the most basic rule of survival? Evidence must be erased. Always."
She pointed toward the ground behind them, where remnants of slick, pale vines still clung to the soil.
"Destroy the remaining rooted vines," she ordered. "Tree Slippery Vines cannot be burned, but they are highly sensitive to toxins and corrosive elements. Leaving them behind is an invitation for pursuit."
A brief silence followed.
Then a voice rose casually from the group.
"That's easy."
Every head turned.
