They walked for a while without speaking, letting their breathing return to normal. The plains stretched wide and open around them, with no immediate movement in sight.
Han Yi broke the silence first.
"…Okay. That thing is still not chasing us, right?"
Mu Chen glanced back once more, then shook his head.
"…No. It's staying down. Or it decided we're not worth the trouble."
Han Yi nodded quickly.
"…Good. I like being 'not worth the trouble.'"
Yue gave a small tired smile.
"…Let's keep it that way. We should put some distance between us and it."
Ling agreed.
"Yes. We move now, but we don't rush. Stay aware. Watch the grass and the wind."
They continued walking, keeping a steady pace. Everyone stayed close, no one drifting too far ahead or falling behind.
Lei Feng spoke quietly.
"…We're getting better at this. Not stronger in body yet, but better in how we move and react."
Mu Chen nodded.
"…We don't panic as much anymore. That matters."
Han Yi sighed.
