Brian led Samantha into the cottage, whilst the air around them carried a subtle resonance of lingering magic. The cottage was lit with an enchanted glow, exposing the faces of the weary elf members.
Some sat on makeshift stools, discussing the intricacies of their situation, while others reclined on bedrolls, nursing wounds both visible and concealed. Samantha's fist balled tightly at her side upon noticing the condition of those who had done nothing wrong but help her, and a tense silence occupied the space the moment her presence was noticed.
Some stared at her with pure resentment, which was normal. She had brought this upon them, so it was only natural for them to pin their present situation on her, even if they tried to stay silent about it. Samantha looked hesitantly at Brian, but he gave her a nod of assurance before leading her into another room where the elder chief was tending to the ones who incurred more wounds.
