After resting for a short while, I stood up and looked at everyone as they were still sitting or leaning against trees, trying to recover their strength.
"That's enough," I said calmly. "We move."
There was no hesitation this time, because the moment I spoke, they all began to get up and gather their things, and within a short time we were already walking again.
The forest grew quiet once more, and the only sound that could be heard was the steady rhythm of our footsteps as everyone followed behind me just as I had instructed.
After walking for some time, Liu Muyan moved closer to my side, her steps light but her eyes thoughtful as she observed the people behind us.
"You've changed," she said gently. "They are starting to listen to you now."
I did not turn to look at her as I replied.
"They just want to live," I said.
Behind us, Liu Ruyan spoke in her usual calm tone, her gaze still forward and her expression unchanged.
