We collected logs and branches to construct a fire, and Ash skillfully ignited it while I ventured to the creek within his view. After refilling the canteen and securing the stopper, I was startled by the sound of a twig snapping behind me, prompting me to swiftly turn around to identify the source of the noise. Two men who appeared to be mercenaries stood there with devious smiles, twisting their faces into the ones from my nightmares, the intent of what they planned for me written across their faces.
Before I was able to let out a full shriek, they lunged at me, and the canteen in my hand became my only weapon, with which I thrust upward as hard as I could, smashing the face of one mercenary and knocking him unconscious upon the ground. The other man then angrily grabbed my arm and pul
