"Mr. Jem, do we have to turn back now? Or..." The professor was a man in his sixties, so his voice was somewhat hoarse.
He had brought other students here on field trips before, but things had never been this difficult.
Jem did not answer immediately. He surveyed their surroundings before saying, "We can't cross the swamp, but there's another way. Whether we take it is up to you. It's a bit troublesome, and somewhat dangerous."
"What way?" The professor furrowed his brow. He felt he would have to take the students back this time. They could not proceed if there was any danger involved, but it was such a shame. If he had been alone, he would have gone. He wanted to go badly, too. After all, he was already in his sixties and would soon be dead. Wouldn't seeing this forest once more before he died be a joy in itself?
"Climb over that cliff. If you think it's doable, I can go up first and secure a rope, then you and your students can climb up. But there'll still be some risk," Jem explained his idea.
"Everyone, let's head back. It's too dangerous. It's a real shame this time, but you can come with another team in the future. By then, you should all be very capable yourselves." The professor turned to them, sounding dejected.
"Aww, we can't go? But we finally made it all the way here." The students immediately wilted at the news, though a few thought it was wonderful. They could finally leave this forest that not even a ghost would want to stay in.
"Is there really no way?" one male student asked, still unwilling to give up.
The professor hesitated for a while before saying, "There is, but it's a little dangerous.