The woodland floor was covered in dancing patterns as the first rays of sunlight seeped through the thick canopy above. With their camp packed up with military efficiency, the group was already in motion. Zara took the lead, her blade securely fastened to her back, and Anya trailed a few paces behind, her presence still drawing suspicious looks from the others.
The typical symphony of birdsong had been replaced by an oppressive calm, and the woodland was disturbingly quiet. Zara became tense, her gut telling her that something was wrong.
Anya broke the stillness by saying, "This path leads to the nearest settlement." "After that, we can plan our next course of action and gather supplies."
Although his hand never left the hilt of his blade, Kael grunted his approbation.
Just before noon, the village came into view. It was a collection of wooden houses surrounded by expansive fields. Smoke was rising from the chimneys, and the sound of children's laughter could be heard in the air.Zara
