On the ground were a few clumps of weeds they had trampled earlier.
"What's going on? Weren't we just walking straight ahead? How did we end up back here?" a young man with glasses asked in confusion.
"Did we go the wrong way?" another girl whispered.
Guide He's expression soured, but he held his temper. He only said in a low voice, "This shouldn't be happening. I've walked this path hundreds of times—I could do it with my eyes closed. Let's try again."
He apologized to Professor Zhou and the others, then once again led the team into the untouched region.
This time, he moved more slowly and deliberately, periodically checking his position against trees, rocks, and other landmarks.
However, five minutes later—
They were back at the boundary entrance once again!
It was as if an invisible circle had trapped them, keeping them near the entrance.
"What is your problem?"
