Chapter 31: Connecting Dots
The sound of the group’s footsteps mingled with the heavy rustling of wet leaves and broken branches underfoot. The darkness was not just the absence of light—it was a presence. A living membrane that seemed to want to swallow any trace of civilization or logic. But Eren did not feel fear. Not anymore. He felt... calculation.
The forest marked the end of the territory dominated by the Order of the Burning Eye. And, at the same time, it was the beginning of their silent retaliation.
[Neutral Zone: Borders of the State of Norval]
[Danger: Intermediate | Faith Trackers: -Lost-]
[Group’s Average Affinity: 92%]
Kaela looked over her shoulder, sniffing. She walked at the rear, in a semi-beastly posture, her amber eyes glaring at any suspicious sound. She still panted a bit from the recent battle—more from wounded pride than actual fatigue.
Nyssa, as usual, slithered near his heels, maintaining partial contact with his skin to feel secure.
Eren noticed that his core pulsed differently, more firmly, as if it were emotionally maturing after everything. But he didn’t comment. Feelings were not his priority at that moment.
The spider followed them from above.
Morwynn leapt between trunks, almost invisible in the darkness, weaving fine threads at strategic points as they advanced. Cautious, methodical... and strangely at ease.
It was she who broke the silence:
"Humans are... interesting. They don’t flee like prey, nor do they advance like predators. They simply... resist."