With the lantern casting a yellow glow, Lucien ventured deeper into the dense woods, his senses on high alert. Each rustle of leaves under his boots crunched loudly in the stillness, and he strained his ears to detect any sign of Blaise's presence. The chorus of chirping birds and croaking frogs provided a comforting backdrop, assuring him that danger had not claimed this part of the forest.
"Blaise!" Lucien's voice carried through the trees, cutting through the silence. He repeated the call several times. "Blaise, if you're there, please respond!"
A flicker of movement caught Lucien's attention, and his gaze darted to a nearby tree. Blaise emerged from his hiding spot, landing gracefully on the forest floor. Lucien couldn't help but notice the distress in Blaise's eyes, the turmoil that was written on his features.
"Lucien, is that you?" Blaise's voice sounded cold and emotionless.
