Back in the simulation, the sand beneath Evelyn's boots shifted slightly as she stepped forward, eyes focused on the trees ahead.
From where they stood, the patch of green looked like a small oasis—quiet, peaceful, and strangely inviting after everything they'd just passed.
The others followed close behind, forming a loose triangle as they approached. No one said much.
The heat was still heavy, and the weight of almost being eaten alive by mimic piranhas hadn't fully worn off yet.
As they got closer to the grove, something unexpected came into view.
People.
Not just any people.
A whole group.
Standing at the edge of the trees, half in shadow and half in sun, were at least ten students.
Evelyn's steps slowed.
The three girls behind her paused, too.
The tall one squinted. "Wait… is that…?"
The short one nodded slowly. "That's Ethan, isn't it? And… Lucas?"
