The next few days passed in an uneasy calm. The forest, which had once felt familiar and welcoming, now seemed different. The trees held a quiet vigilance, as if aware of what had transpired in the ancient clearing. Even the usual sounds of birds and wildlife seemed muted, lending an unsettling silence to the camp.
Kael sat at the edge of the clearing, sharpening his sword in the dim morning light. He went through the familiar motions, letting the rhythmic scrape of metal on stone settle his thoughts. Yet no amount of routine could entirely ease the tension that lingered in his chest. The shadow they had confronted had not been defeated in a final sense; it had only been held at bay.
Morgana approached, her steps nearly silent on the forest floor. She lowered herself beside him, her gaze thoughtful as she looked out at the trees. "You haven't slept much, have you?" she asked, her tone gentle but probing.
