Van Loon led the remaining Combat goat into a hasty retreat deep into the forest. The surroundings were dense with trees and heavy with shadows, serving as both a refuge and a final line of defense for them. During their escape, Van Loon constantly looked back to ensure that every Combat goat could keep up, but each glance tightened his heart. What was once an elite guerrilla squad of about twenty now numbered only thirteen. Every lost Combat goat filled Van Loon with deep sorrow, as they were not just battle companions, but also a family with whom he had shared life and struggle in this otherworldly realm.
What further tormented Van Loon was the presence of Solomon. In his mind, Solomon was no longer just an opponent, but a deeply threatening presence. From a guardian knight to the current raging beast, Solomon's transformation was not just in his outward fighting style, but more so in his inner being. Van Loon could sense that Solomon's current ferocity was not just due to the shame of defeat, but rather the release of something deep within his soul.
This kind of Solomon is more dangerous than ever before. His power seems to have been elevated to a certain extent in the midst of madness, and his blind and indiscriminate attacks even instill a hint of fear in the Van Loon. In the forest, every step is filled with unknowns and dangers, but for the Van Loon, the biggest threat is no longer the natural obstacles in the forest, but the irrational and purely instinctive Solomon.
Van Loon takes a deep breath, trying to calm himself down. He knows that they must be even more cautious from now on, not only to evade human pursuit, but also to be constantly vigilant against Solomon's attacks. In this forest, they must fight for survival and also fight to protect the land that belongs to them. No matter how difficult the road ahead may be, Van Loon must lead these Combat goat to find hope for survival.
Van Loon led the remaining Combat goat and, after a cautious advance, finally approached their territory. They remained highly alert along the way, but unexpectedly, they did not encounter any pursuers. Van Loon speculated that their previous raid had likely caused enough chaos in the human camp to prevent them from organizing an immediate pursuit. In addition, Solomon's violent behavior in the camp undoubtedly exacerbated the situation, making the already chaotic camp even more difficult to control, thus giving Van Loon an opportunity for a safe retreat.
Although they felt a slight relief at the absence of pursuers, Van Loon still felt heavy-hearted. While the raid had successfully disrupted the human military deployment to some extent, it came at a cost—many brave Combat goat had sacrificed their lives in this operation. Van Loon was well aware that the conflict with humans was far from over, and they needed to prepare for the possibility of more intense attacks to come.
As they gradually approached the territory, Van Loon felt a complex and indescribable mood. On one hand, he was relieved that he could safely lead the remaining warriors back; on the other hand, he felt anxious and worried about the uncertainties and challenges ahead. This experience was not only a test of their survival skills, but also a test of their willpower and determination.
As the night deepened, the other three guerrilla squads also gradually converged from all directions of the forest, quietly approaching the team led by Van Loon. Their movements were cautious and swift, like ghosts in the night, silently shuttling among the shadows of the Black Forest Realm. When all the squads gathered in front of the territory's gate, this small army composed of goat and wild boar once again demonstrated their unity and strength.
Van Loon stood in front of the territory gate, looking from a distance at the traps and defensive works they had set up. From deep pits to sharp wooden spikes, and to the hidden yet deadly caltrops, all of these were the result of the joint efforts of Vick and the working sheep. These defensive measures scattered in the forests surrounding the territory would undoubtedly bring unexpected difficulties and losses to any invading enemy.
This scene brought a hint of comfort to Van Loon. Although they were facing a powerful human army, they were not unprepared. These traps and defensive works were their first line of defense against strong enemies, a solid guarantee for the safety of the territory. In the Black Forest Realm, every inch of land carried their wisdom and sweat.
Van Loon let out a long howl, a signal of leadership and authority. As the sound echoed, the gates of the territory slowly lowered. Van Loon led their guerrilla team into the territory, a triumphant return despite some losses, successfully retreating with valuable intelligence.
Vick, the loyal Skeleton Giant of Van Loon, was busy strengthening the wooden wall defenses around the perimeter of the territory. His figure appeared particularly diligent in the night, every swing of the axe a firm preparation for future battles. When he looked up and saw Van Loon's returning team, even his skull face, unable to show true expressions, seemed to reveal a hint of relief and a smile.
This smile, although not as colorful as that of the living, is the best proof of deep trust and loyalty to Van Loon. Vick put down the tools in his hands and walked forward to greet Van Loon and his team. At this moment, there is no need for many words; their eyes are already filled with determination and confidence for the future battle.
Van Loon nodded at Vick, affirming his efforts and expressing hope for the future. They knew that in the face of a powerful enemy, every preparation was crucial.
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