Paragon of Mana

Ember and Zea stood before a looming opening of an underground cavern system.

After collecting their spoils, they had gone back to the Marewood Toads’ dwelling and discovered that there were a number of gloomy crevices along the rugged hills.

Many of those toads had already scattered deep into the underground paths due to the earlier disturbance, not to mention the sun was on the verge of peeking over the horizon. Most of those toads weren’t highly active during the day, after all.

“Ember, we shouldn’t venture in,” said Zea.

And Ember agreed wholeheartedly.

The only reason he was able to contend with those amphibious monsters was due to his agility and freedom of movement. Much of that would be cut off if he had to venture into a crevice that seemed to go deep into the earth. He rolled a rock down into the yawning opening and heard it rolling down for several seconds, indicating he’d have to make far better preparations if he were to dive into the dark cavity.

It was certainly not sensible to venture in alone, or with just the two of them. Hell, Ember didn’t think it was a good idea even with his party, either. Even if their own capabilities would suffice, their attitude would perhaps be the biggest contributor to their failure. Benny certainly didn’t know how to lead, or care to. Elin seemed to be steadier now, though how much she could regulate her cousins and their group was still unknown.

The sun peeked over the hills by the time they cleaned themselves. With them running rampant through the muddy bog, it was practically impossible to cleanse all the dirt and grime off their forms without bathing and washing their attire. But they didn’t intend to, considering they would be out hunting within a few hours.

“Should we report about the cavern to the others?” Zea asked.