He slowed down and crouched, motioning her to do the same. She obeyed but didn't sense any danger. The forest was quiet with the exception of the wind. That was normal for that time of year. The animals would hibernate and the birds had migrated. As far as she was aware, the white insects only travelled by night.
The slight movement past the bare bushes caught her attention. It caused her heart to race, which she pressed to calm it. His hand had a firm grip on his sword's handle. Whatever was out there, he deemed it to be threatening. Unease settled through her. He was usually uptight but not like that. It was normally about personal things if she asked questions. She held the hunting knife at her side, but it didn't leave much defense. She could do harm if they didn't get too violent wit
