The Emberwood's oppressive heat gave way to a cool breeze as the group neared its edge. The crimson glow of the trees began to fade, replaced by the jagged silhouette of distant mountains—the Ashen Peaks.
"We're close," Seris said, her voice low. "But so are they."
Kael stiffened. "The Hunters?"
She nodded. "I spotted their tracks two days ago. They're ahead of us, but not by much."
Varyn tightened his grip on his blade. "Then we need to move faster."
"Not so fast," Marlen said, holding up a hand. "If the Hunters are ahead, they've probably set traps. Rushing in blind is a good way to get killed."
Seris nodded in agreement. "He's right. They'll expect us to take the main route. But there's another way—a hidden path that will take us straight to the Peaks."
Kael hesitated. "Why do I feel like there's a catch?"
Seris smirked. "Because there is. The path is dangerous, and it's not exactly... stable. But it's our best shot at avoiding the Hunters."
Kael glanced at Varyn and Marlen. Both looked uncertain, but there was no time to waste.
"Alright," he said. "Lead the way."
---
The hidden path was little more than a narrow trail carved into the side of a steep cliff. The air was thin and cold, the wind howling around them as they made their way forward.
"Watch your step," Seris warned. "One wrong move, and you'll be part of the mountain."
Kael focused on placing one foot in front of the other, his heart pounding as loose rocks crumbled beneath him. Varyn followed close behind, his usual confidence replaced by grim determination.
Marlen, however, seemed oddly calm. "I have to admit, this is a bit more thrilling than I expected," he said with a grin.
"Save the commentary," Varyn snapped.
Suddenly, a low rumble echoed through the mountains.
"What was that?" Kael asked, his voice tense.
Seris's expression darkened. "The Hunters. They've found us."