The edge of the forest swallowed up two individuals like a beast devouring prey. As the darkness consumed them, the young women were met with cascades of trees and bushes. The oak and yew trees had wondrous canopies of leaves that shaded them from the sun. As they evaded fallen branches, roots, and shrubs, they took notice of the floating particles made visible by sparkles of sunlight peaking through the green leaves above.

The scent was of earth and soil, maybe mild animal scat as well. As the millions of what felt like wooden hands nagged away at the girls' ankles, Ashla took notice of how the air felt cool and moist. Considering that it was a forest, it was no surprise. Ashla looked back for a moment, tugging at her hood's side so she could see fully. It was only moments ago that they entered, but now no exit was in sight. Turning to her companion, who was climbing upon a downed oak, she smiled, "Thanks for wrapping my cloak up. It would be a whole lot harder to move if I let it go."

On all fours, the redhead was observing the surrounding area with diligence. As her red braided hair fell over her right shoulder, she smiled and scoffed in amusement, "Yeah, imagine all the ticks and spiders that would latch onto it too."

As they shared a lighthearted chuckle, Ashla looked down to her white shirt, blue tunic, and brown pants. The familiar chainmail was sandwiched between her white and blue tops. She also had shoulder plates and greaves for her legs. Her delyn plated, leather gloves had retractable claws made of Eiskaltian metal. With the various bags on her back and strapped to her waist, she and Felicity were set to go.

Felicity jumped down from the tree, landing with a thud. As her leather jacket rippled, she stood up as put her hands to her hip. The half-neanderthal sighed, "Everything looks the same. How do we know where to look?"

Ashla walked up next to her, the sound of plants rustling beneath her feet. "Apparently, there's rumors of an old Lakefish hideout next to a creek further downhill."

"So the lower the elevation the better?" Felicity hopped, making sure her bags were secure, "Sounds fun."

Ashla sniffed the air, "If the air is moister, we're closer. Also pay attention to the sound of running water."

"Well, obviously." Felicity smirked.

Smiling, Ashla pat her younger friend on the back then trekked on ahead.