"Our objective is to search for clues," the disheveled man reiterated, his gaze sweeping over the group.
As we left the town, the guards barely gave us a second glance. It seemed they were already aware of our mission to find the missing woman.
And this time, of course, we weren't alone. The last time I ventured out on my own, their suspicion was palpable. But now, with a group of five, everything seemed perfectly normal.
"What kind of clues should we be looking for?" one of the towering men rumbled, his voice deep and gruff.
This time, I took the lead, responding with confidence, "Any sign of a struggle, or perhaps markings like footprints."
I had anticipated some skepticism, but the man simply nodded and continued his scan of the surroundings. This small gesture instilled a sense of camaraderie within me. I felt my words held weight, that this group was willing to listen.