With a quiet word to Shadow, Ash led them to the edge of the group, their conversation hushed, their expressions serious.
"Lord Gareth is priority number one," Ash said, his voice low and intense. "Protect him at all costs. He must survive this expedition, no matter what."
Shadow's eyes met Ash's, the unspoken words hanging in the air between them.
"I understand," Shadow said, their voice a whisper.
Returning to the group, Ash and Shadow moved back to the forefront, their gazes sweeping the shadows for signs of danger.
Gareth, his expression a mix of relief and shame, stayed close to Shadow, his sword clutched tightly in his hand.
And so they continued, their footsteps echoing in the silence of the dungeon, their nerves on edge, their eyes fixed on the dark unknown.
When the adventurers came across the other group, it was clear that they were familiar faces.
