Robert moved through the trees without slowing, though the fight still pulsed in his ribs and shoulder. The forest behind him was no longer quiet. Blood had soaked into the roots and leaves. Although the bodies were left untouched, beasts would gather. The scent alone would carry. He had taken what mattered.
From the Spirit Root Level 7 assassin, he removed the storage ring carefully, wiping the blood from the metal before slipping it into his sleeve. The other three rings followed. A few spirit stones. Two mid-grade healing pills. A narrow, curved blade that had nearly opened his side. He left the rest.
He did not look back. When he reached the concealed hollow where the others hid, he did not announce himself. He stepped into view only after making sure no one had followed.
