This was the moment when the crowd, at last, adopted such a compromising stance towards what was unfolding before their eyes and reflected such thoughts deep within their hearts.
Andrew, too, was acutely aware of the atmosphere permeating the crowd.
As the shadows of the forest gradually receded, he watched as the crowd maintained a safe distance, and he found himself unable to suddenly launch his own attack.
With a move, his figure vanished once more, perched on an unidentifiable branch, while the rustling leaves under the gentle breeze obscured his tracks.
No one knew whether he remained in the same spot or had quietly followed along the periphery of the crowd.
Yet still, at that moment, both parties continued to increase their distance from one another.
It was not until Andrew thought he might be at a safe place that he would consider stopping, though the pace had noticeably quickened from the initial cautious advance.