"Dalko..."
Roland raised an arm, gently stopping the gasping Dalko behind him, and spoke in a low voice.
"Something's not right up ahead. You wait here. I'll go scout it out."
"O...okay..."
Excessive blood loss and intense pain made Dalko dizzy. He managed a weak nod, looking completely dazed.
Although they were already beyond the goblins' patrol range, Roland cautiously scanned their surroundings to be absolutely sure.
After confirming the area was safe, he carefully helped Dalko sit and lean against a thick tree trunk.
Once his companion was settled, Roland began to move forward silently.
He deliberately lightened his steps, precisely avoiding the dry twigs and fallen leaves on the ground with each footfall.
As the distance closed, the once-faint sounds of battle gradually became clear and distinct.
When he was close enough to the source of the sound, Roland deftly ducked into a dense thicket of bushes.
