The disciples gathered in a semicircle at the clearing's center. Elder Fu stood before them, his weathered face displaying none of the fatigue one might expect after a night spent maintaining the protective formations around their temporary haven. The morning light filtering through the ancient canopy cast dappled patterns across his form, highlighting the jade medallion at his chest that pulsed faintly with concentrated spiritual energy.
"I trust you all had a restful night," Elder Fu addressed the group, his voice carrying easily across the clearing. "Savor that memory. It may be the last peaceful rest you experience for some time." His gaze swept across the assembled disciples, assessing their conditions with practiced efficiency. "The path ahead requires speed. To meet our two-month deadline at the Eternal Lake, we will travel continuously—even through the nights when the forest's consciousness is most active."
