Chapter 59: Crossed Line
Dylan tried to push his thoughts away to stay focused on their path.
Before they left, Élisa had suggested cutting off a piece of meat from the creature, but honestly... he doubted his teeth would survive such a challenge. That thing had the consistency of reinforced concrete.
They retraced their steps and reached the cave — where, of course, the orc had left its stinking crap as a parting gift.
"I’ll kill that bastard," he muttered, stepping toward the entrance.
He slowed down. The opening wasn’t wide enough for large creatures, but smaller ones could easily slip through.
If the forest had taught him anything, it was to always expect the unexpected.
He didn’t wait long. He dashed in, fast, and gestured for the others to follow.
Inside, their shelter looked exactly as they’d left it. The rocky walls surrounded a half-burnt pile of wood, now covered in ashes.
A few bones from their last meal were still lying around, and their belongings leaned against the wall, untouched.
Dylan nodded, relieved. He sat on a flat spot, pulled the anima gem from his pocket, and let out a long sigh.
Not from pain. Just exhaustion.