The trail of destruction led them through the crystalline forest like a beacon of violence. Shattered trees, scattered remains of shadow creatures, and deep gouges in the spirit realm's twisted landscape marked where the demon had passed. The path was unmistakable, but the sounds of rampage had grown increasingly distant.
"She's getting farther ahead," Osa observed, his water abilities detecting the fading traces of demonic energy in the air. "That's either very good or very bad."
"Probably both," Saguna replied grimly, pushing the pace despite the exhaustion of their group. Behind them, the Archive forces maintained their pursuit but kept their distance, clearly unwilling to engage directly after witnessing what Sahara's transformed state could do.
Professor Harish, despite his injuries, maintained tactical awareness of their situation. "The Web Walker's territory should be just ahead. Once we cross that threshold, the Archive can't follow."
