The journey to the Elven territories proved more challenging than Kael and Morgana had anticipated. Dawn's golden light filtered through the ancient trees of the Silverleaf Forest, casting dappled shadows across their path. They moved swiftly but cautiously, aware that the darkness could have already begun spreading its influence even here.
"Something feels different," Morgana whispered, her hand instinctively reaching for Kael's. "The forest's song... it's changed."
Kael nodded, feeling the subtle shift in the air. After their trials in the Whispering Glades, their connection to the natural world had deepened, allowing them to sense disturbances that would have once gone unnoticed. The usually melodic whispers of the leaves had taken on a discordant edge, like an instrument slightly out of tune.
"We need to hurry," he replied, quickening his pace. "The Elven Council must be warned."
