章 155: The Race Against Time

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the forest as Emily led her team through the thick underbrush. Their breath came in ragged gasps, not from the exertion of the journey but from the suffocating tension that had taken hold of them. The recent betrayal had left a scar on the group's unity, and although they were all aware of the importance of their mission, the cracks in their trust were beginning to show.

Emily pushed forward, her heart pounding with a mix of fear and determination. The knowledge that a dark ritual was being prepared, one that could have devastating consequences, filled her with dread. She knew they had little time to spare, and every moment spent bickering or doubting each other could bring them closer to failure.

Riven walked beside her, his eyes darting nervously through the trees. "We're getting close," he whispered, his voice tight with anxiety. "I can feel the magic in the air, it's getting stronger."