The Southern Hunting Grounds stretched out before them in eerie silence.
The trees were denser now, their leaves filtering out much of the sunlight and casting everything in a patchwork of shadow and light.
Even the breeze felt heavier, like the air itself was bracing for something.
Penny walked near the middle of the group, dragging her feet a little with each step.
She still had one hand on her stomach, dramatically reminding everyone of her brush with 'death'.
Crystal didn't turn around but spoke loud enough for her to hear.
"You know, most people wouldn't have survived a puncture like that."
Penny gave a solemn nod. "I know."
Greg snorted. "Yeah, the humiliation alone would've taken out a weaker soul."
Penny scowled, though she didn't deny it. "I'm a survivor. Bravest girl here."
Aria muttered, "You screamed."
"I tactically alerted the party to danger," Penny replied. "You're welcome."
