The campfire crackled softly, its light casting flickering shadows across Seris's face. She sat calmly, her hands resting on her knees as Kael, Varyn, and Marlen loomed over her.
"Start talking," Kael said, his sword still in hand.
Seris raised an eyebrow, her demeanor unshaken. "If you wanted me dead, I'd already be. So why not skip the theatrics?"
Varyn scowled. "You attacked us."
"I tested you," she corrected, her voice like ice. "I needed to see if you were worth my time."
Kael exchanged a glance with Marlen, who merely shrugged. "She's not wrong," Marlen said, a smirk playing on his lips.
Kael sighed, sheathing his sword but keeping his guard up. "Fine. You've made your point. Now tell us why you're here."
Seris leaned forward, her expression turning serious. "I'm part of a group that opposes the Hunters. We've been tracking their movements for years, and when I heard about the Heart's reawakening, I knew it was only a matter of time before they came for you."
Marlen narrowed his eyes. "Opposing the Hunters isn't exactly a common pastime. Who are you really working for?"
Seris hesitated, her gaze flickering to Kael. "Let's just say we share a common goal. The Heart fragments must be protected at all costs, and you can't do it alone."
Kael frowned, his instincts warning him not to trust her too quickly. But the urgency in her voice was hard to ignore.
"Alright," he said. "If you're serious about helping us, prove it. What do you know about the Ashen Peaks?"
Seris's lips curved into a faint smile. "More than you do. I can get you there faster—and alive."
---
The next morning, the group broke camp and continued their journey, Seris now walking alongside them. Though her presence added tension, she seemed to know the Emberwood well, guiding them through paths that avoided the worst of the forest's dangers.
As they traveled, Kael couldn't help but notice the way Seris moved—silent, deliberate, like a predator stalking its prey. She wasn't just skilled; she was dangerous.
"You don't trust me," Seris said suddenly, breaking the silence.
Kael glanced at her. "Should I?"
She chuckled softly. "No. But trust isn't necessary for survival. You'll see soon enough."