The night enveloped the forest, its canopy dense and foreboding as Elara, Aric, and Elias rode silently through the twisting paths. The sounds of nocturnal creatures echoed around them, a constant reminder that the wilderness held dangers of its own. Yet, each of them was lost in thought, their minds focused on the mission ahead.
Elara led the way, her eyes sharp and alert. Despite the darkness, her senses were heightened, attuned to every shift in the wind and rustle in the underbrush. She had ridden these paths before, but never with a burden so heavy on her shoulders. The fate of their village—and perhaps many others—hung in the balance.
After several hours, they reached a small clearing where they decided to rest for the night. The moonlight filtered through the trees, casting an eerie glow on the forest floor. Aric and Elias dismounted and began to set up a small camp, their movements quick and efficient.
