The pair continued to run through the shadows of the towering trees, seeking shelter from the dark night.
Dew covered them, settling on the leaves, as if nature wanted to hide their tracks.
The sound of the rough footsteps of the royal knights grew farther behind almost inaudible to their ears, but Claire still felt nervousness gripping her.
Finally, Ethan stopped behind a large moss-covered rock, looking back, signaling for Claire to hide as well. They crouched in silence, holding their breath as the voices of their pursuers could be heard faintly.
Claire stared at Ethan with fearful eyes, while Ethan raised a finger to his lips, telling her to stay still. After a few moments, the sounds from the knights died down, leaving them in a silence filled only by their own breathing.
Ethan pulled an apple from his bag, handing it to Her.
"Eat," he said softly, but firmly. "We may have to run even further than this."
