Black Thorn Forest: Deadly danger in the depths

"Everyone, stay close behind me. Once we enter the forest, absolutely no splitting up and no unnecessary noise." Lin Ye stood at the entrance to the Black Thorn Forest, his tone more serious than ever. He could clearly sense that the deadly dangers within the forest were far more terrifying than those along the coast. There were not only top-tier beasts, but also members of the Phantom Troupe watching from the shadows. One wrong step could leave them beyond salvation. "Understood!" everyone answered in unison, their expressions tense. Lin Ye entered the forest first. Pitch-black branches intertwined overhead, forming an enormous black net. Only scattered rays of light filtered through the gaps, casting mottled spots of light. Rotten leaves rustled beneath their feet, the sound especially grating in the deathly silent forest. Keeping his Observation Haki active at all times, Lin Ye moved with light, steady steps, avoiding the beasts' nests and traps well in advance. The group followed closely behind him, slowly winding through the dense woods like a silent snake. Killua supported Gon as they walked in the middle of the group, his electric Nen warily probing the surrounding darkness. "Lin Ye, I keep feeling like... something's watching us." "It's the Phantom Troupe," Lin Ye said softly, his voice audible only to those beside him. "Chrollo is cautious. He's observing how we fight and how much of my strength I'm using. He won't make a move until he finds the perfect opening." Gon clenched his fists, his eyes filled with anger. "Chrollo is despicable! He keeps hiding in the shadows and ambushing us. He doesn't dare fight us head-on!" "That's how the Phantom Troupe operates," Kite said quietly. "They never care about rules, only what they stand to gain. The World Tree Sap, your life, and Lin Ye's