Noel and the team were led out by a patrol guard.
The path leading out of Oakvich Town narrowed as it moved toward the forest.
Noel walked ahead, his steps slowing slightly as the environment began to change around them. The ground felt different under his feet, softer in some places and uneven in others, and the wind that once moved freely now felt blocked, as if something ahead was swallowing it whole.
Behind him, the group followed.
Sunta kicked a loose stone off the path and frowned at the empty road ahead.
"No fight yet."
Theasre folded his arms, clearly irritated by the repetition of it.
"You've been saying that for the past hour. Shut up."
Sunta looked at him and then snorted.
"You are weak. You're scared."
Theasre's eyes sharpened and his jaw tightened.
"Say that again."
Elderic stepped quickly between them before either could go further.
"Both of you, stop." His voice was firm but carried the weight of someone who was already tired of the both of them.
