The atmosphere became thick with fear, and the expected danger seemed to be just around the corner.
Could it be that the locals knew about him? Or had someone informed them about him?
They could be just returning like usual, for all I be thinkin'.
He drew near to the entrance, one wary step at a time, spying through the narrow slits in the door made of wood.
His heart pounded like a war drum. If they discovered him here, it could spell disaster. He needed to leave—quickly and without a trace.
Outside, he saw a dozen people lined up on either side, forming a solemn procession.
The elders, clad in their ceremonial garb consisting of robes and wooden crowns with a dazzling centre gem, walked toward the Great Tree, with a feeling of seriousness engraved in their faces, barely able to entertain any forms of jollity.
Following them were pairs of villagers holding chairs above their heads, ready to put them back in place.
