Lynch and Kong walked side by side through the ancient forest.
Underfoot was a thick layer of leaves emitting a faint golden glow; they were exceptionally soft, almost silent when stepped on. The air was moist and fresh, filled with a subtle aroma reminiscent of post-rain minerals mixed with strange flowers and grasses.
The trunks of the tall trees displayed a gentle jade white or pale gold color, and their smooth bark was adorned with vine-like flowing crystals. The leaves shimmered with metallic hues of silver, blue, and purple. When the eternal golden "skylight" filtered through the gaps in the canopy, a tranquil and enigmatic halo flowed throughout the forest's interior.
However, as they proceeded deeper, Lynch keenly sensed a hint of discord.
The terrain was descending.
This sensation was initially slight but grew increasingly noticeable. They were not ascending a mountain but rather following a gradual yet steady downward slope.
This made him furrow his brow slightly.
