As the mist gradually dissipated, it was like a veil of mystery being gently lifted. The mountains emerged in their full grandeur, with sprawling peaks and rugged cliffs forming a breathtaking vista. Loka and Katherine stood atop a high ridge, their gazes piercing through the clear air to spot the Eldenia plains below. In the distance, they could see the Strongson army's encampments.
"It seems we've escaped the grip of Shadowveil Heights," Katherine sighed in relief, her expression easing slightly, though her sharp eyes remained watchful. "But the situation ahead looks... unusual."
Loka's eyes stayed fixed on the distant scene, his brow furrowed in thought. "The Strongson troops have set up camp with little apparent defense."
The sisters exchanged a look, understanding immediately what this could imply. The Strongson forces had secured strategic positions near Eldenia, while Leon's main army had already moved into Whitehold.
"I need to get this information to Maeldor immediately," Loka said, taking a deep breath. From his pocket, he retrieved a small rune-etched wooden flute and blew softly. The melody, carried by the wind, quickly faded into the air. Moments later, a wind whisper bird appeared, ready to deliver Loka's message to Maeldor with precise swiftness.
"This might be an opportunity, but we can't act recklessly," Katherine cautioned, her sharp gaze scanning the horizon. "We need to tread carefully."
Loka nodded, his focus still on the enemy camp in the distance. "We'll wait for the bird's return while keeping a close eye on Strongson's movements. Once we know Maeldor's strategy, we can decide our next steps."
Not long after, the bird returned with Maeldor's response. The elder believed the Strongson army's apparent vulnerability was a deliberate ruse, masking a deeper and more intricate strategy. His instructions were clear: Loka and his group were to remain vigilant, avoid direct engagement, and await reinforcements from Airtulan's northern forces. Along with this advice, Maeldor provided a detailed route through the mountains to bypass the enemy's encampments, using the terrain to their advantage.
"Maeldor wants us to stay under the radar and wait for the right moment," Loka said, turning to Katherine. "He's convinced it's a trap, which means we can't afford to underestimate them."
Katherine nodded slightly. "Understood. We need to uncover their real intentions before we act. Falling into their snare would be disastrous."
The pair turned their attention to the surrounding environment. The rugged mountain terrain offered them ample cover, but the proximity to the Strongson camp also meant heightened danger.
As Loka and Katherine prepared to move further, faint footsteps echoed in the distance. A small patrol of enemy soldiers appeared to be scouting the area.
"We must stay hidden. They can't find us," Katherine whispered, her eyes gleaming with a warrior's determination. Leading the way, she quickly ducked into a cluster of rocks, with Loka close behind.
Their movements were precise and silent, gliding through the concealed paths of the mountains without a sound. Soon, the Strongson patrol passed through their line of sight, unaware of their presence.
"Keep quiet and stay out of sight," Loka murmured, his voice low but firm. "We'll wait for Maeldor's next orders. No rash decisions."