Ryu clenched his hand around Voidfang as he entered the central hall of the outpost with Kaelith, Aris, and Draven by his side. The hum of activity within the hall was in sharp contrast to the heavy air surrounding their conversation. Merchants bartered, adventurers huddled over maps, and blacksmiths showed off their newest creations, yet Ryu's mind was elsewhere—already dwelling on the threat Kaelith had described.
Kaelith moved with a subtle grace, her silver hair glinting faintly in the torchlight as her sharp blue eyes surveyed the room. She seemed to draw the attention of those around her, though not out of recognition. There was something about her presence that exuded a quiet intensity, as if she were someone who'd seen more than her fair share of battles.
