After a brief rest, Professor Cadwell decided to lead the team to an area of soft marshland, a potential research site they had identified through satellite imagery.
This was an unexplored wetland that might conceal even more unknown species. There was even a good chance they would find traces of birds and small mammals that had never been discovered in the George Gill Range.
The marsh, shrouded in dampness, greeted the expedition team. The ground was soft and waterlogged, and every sinking step produced a rustling sound.
The fragrance of earth mixed with the distinctive scent of humus in the air. Dense green vegetation surrounded them, its leaves broad and thick, with dew glimmering faintly upon them.
The team members changed into waterproof overshoes and carefully avoided the muddier patches.
Under Professor Cadwell's direction, they proceeded along a naturally formed trail.
Although the ground was slippery, everyone remained highly alert, afraid of missing any corner where creatures might be hiding. Quite a few team members had even switched on their flashlights, hoping to get a better look at the small creatures that might be concealed here.
The trees grew shorter in this wetland, while their branches and leaves became denser. Light struggled to penetrate the heavy green curtain and reach the ground. From time to time, beams of sunlight slanted down through gaps in the treetops, illuminating small patches of earth that took on rich golden-brown hues beneath the light.
As they entered a deeper part of the wetland, they noticed some strange aquatic plants floating on the water. Their leaves were broad and covered in a thin waxy layer that helped them remain steadily afloat. In shallower areas, toads and small aquatic insects could be seen darting through the water, stirring up tiny ripples.
As the team ventured deeper,