The terrain here was rugged and densely forested, making the trek exceptionally difficult. Naomi Kenway wore a large backpack, holding Ian's hand with one of hers while using a walking stick in the other to steady her steps.
It wasn't a walking stick she'd bought for the trip; she'd simply found it by the side of the path. The wood was completely smooth, not the least bit splintery to the touch.
Before they left, Renee Jennings had made sure both she and Nathan Lynch were wearing rain boots. However, for some reason, the muddy ground seemed to get stickier with every step.
Renee Jennings was carrying bags of dry food in both hands, leaving none free to hold Nathan Lynch's. Mona was walking by himself when he suddenly stumbled, falling to his knees with a SPLAT. Muddy water splashed everywhere as his rain boots sank deep into the earth.
"Mommy, it hurts!" Nathan Lynch's eyes instantly welled up.
