The group had been on the move for two days, making steady progress through the demon realm. At one point during the journey, Malrek had grown tired and asked to ride with Ravareth, who readily obliged. Now, on the third morning, they had broken camp early, resuming their journey at the edge of the Light Forest, where they had spent the night.
As they rode, the surrounding trees began to thin, the light filtering through the branches creating a soft, dappled pattern on the ground. Ravareth had explained that they would need to cross another forest before reaching the next village—a place known as the Night Forest. Unlike the peaceful and serene Light Forest, the Night Forest was notorious for its dangers, filled with nocturnal creatures that were best avoided.
Today, Malrek was nestled u
