At night, the forest was thick and suffocating, its canopy blotting out the stars. Yu Xi and his team moved with precision, sweeping the supply station for lurking beasts before settling in. Once the area was clear, Yu Xi deployed small perimeter devices, each one latching onto the surrounding trees with a faint hum. One by one, their lights flickered green, signaling the secure perimeter had engaged.
"Take turns keeping watch," Yu Xi instructed, his voice calm but firm. "I willl take the first shift with Kye, Reign, and Zayn." He picked up his ration pack, walking toward the edge of the camp to begin his patrol.
Rowland, watching him leave, hurried forward. "Team leader, here are some snacks for you," he said, holding them out with both hands.
Yu Xi turned, his gaze steady. "No, it's fine. You need this more than I do."
