As they approached the outskirts of the settlement, the crisp air that had once carried the scent of pine began to change. It grew heavier, denser, tainted by something unseen yet suffocating. The Empress, walking slightly ahead, halted mid-step. Her gaze sharpened beneath the veil, and her hand rose slightly ... a silent command for everyone to stop.
"Wait," she said quietly, her tone edged with warning.
Lucas frowned, scanning the path ahead. "What is it?"
The Empress didn't answer immediately. She closed her eyes, her divine senses stretching outward. For a brief moment, the world seemed to still around her. Then her eyes snapped open, her expression grim. "Something is wrong. The air is foul... lifeless. Be on guard."
Lira stepped closer, clutching her weapon. "Lifeless? What do you mean?"
