These pieces weren't valued solely for their weight but for their exquisite craftsmanship. Even a small item could fetch a price far surpassing that of standard gold. Yet, here lay one of these treasures, seemingly abandoned in the rustic confines of the hut.

Jarrod's brow furrowed in concern as he spoke in a hushed tone. "We need to find out where Nicole went, and fast."

Alec nodded in agreement, his expression resolute. "Understood."

Accompanied by their trained hunting dogs, they swiftly picked up a scent and set off deeper into the rugged expanse of the mountains.

Observing Jarrod's determination to join them, Alec hesitated before speaking up, concern evident in his voice. “Sir, maybe we should take a breather? You've barely had a proper rest in 72 hours except for that short nap in the car. Your body can't keep this up!"

Jarrod, distinct in his manner from the rest, didn't share their ability to easily doze off during car rides. Instead, he merely furrowed his brow lightly, appearing as though he hadn't slept well, likely due to the weight of his concerns.

Unlike Alec and the others, who seemed carefree, there was a visible strain on Jarrod's face.

Despite Alec's plea, Jarrod's resolve remained unyielding. "No rest. We press on."

Their gathered intel suggested Nicole wasn't in immediate peril, but the fact that she had abandoned her bracelet hinted at potential trouble.

While the mountain dwellers might not recognize the bracelet's true worth, its value as gold wasn't lost on them.

Jarrod couldn't shake the nagging unease this realization brought, rendering rest an impossibility.

Recognizing Jarrod's unwavering determination, Alec swiftly consumed two pieces of jerky, washed down with a gulp of water, before falling back into step behind Jarrod.

With their robust physicality and the keen tracking abilities of their canine companions, they continued their brisk pursuit.

Meanwhile, after a strenuous journey, Nicole and the senior man finally arrived at the base of Witch Valley.

Nicole gazed up at the imposing peak, its silhouette standing out among the surrounding peaks. Witch Valley possessed a distinctive shape, resembling a mystical creature poised to ascend to the heavens.

However, the mountain's picturesque appearance belied the malevolent activities that lay concealed within its depths.

Sensing Nicole's apprehension, the senior man came to a halt, choosing not to venture any further for now. Finding a sturdy tree root to perch upon, he retrieved his pipe, lighting it with deliberate care before taking a leisurely drag.

Nicole's anxiety mounted as she pondered Roscoe's fate, uncertain of the dangers he might face if he had indeed been captured. Eager to press onward, she moved to continue, only to be halted by the senior man, who gently blocked her path.

“Patience, my dear," the senior man said slowly. “Let me finish this smoke, and then we shall proceed together."

Nicole, though gripped by anxiety, found solace in the senior man's composed demeanor, compelling her to exercise patience.