The deeper regions of the forest had become quieter compared to the chaotic swamp behind them.
Tall trees stretched upward like ancient pillars, their twisted branches forming a dark canopy that filtered the sunlight into thin golden blades. The ground beneath was uneven and littered with roots, fallen branches, and patches of moss that glowed faintly with traces of chaos energy.
Two figures moved swiftly through that forest.
Eleanor and Elderic.
For the past hour, they had moved together as a temporary alliance, carefully making their way toward the distant mountain whose peak pierced through the mist like a silent judge watching the trial of the cadets.
Neither of them fully trusted the other.But both of them understood one thing.
Survival came first.
At least for now.
Their cooperation had begun when a pack of chaos beasts ambushed them near a narrow clearing.
