Strange noises and insectoid skitterings.

Low-light conditions and unfavorable terrain.

A threat unseen, but a threat that wasn’t explosively aggressive.

Time to leave then.

Esfir recalled the words of that adult orc, the words that Lazash had shared with them. There was something about the caves that presented a threat. Something about the inhabitants of that cave that was worth investigating, but at a latter time. As far as the illumination provided at the mouth of the cave offered, however, there was no way to delve deeper, no way to catch a glimpse of the creature that seemed to stalk her in the gloom. If that was the case, and if it would not pounce her immediately?

Then she would back off, one step at a time, her eyes still searching in the darkness for a sign of danger even as her feet brought her closer to the yellowed hues of sunshine. It ultimately wasn’t a productive venture, but that was fine. There was still time.

Though perhaps she was a bit bruised, of both body and ego. So much for that line.
[@Zeroth]