The forest was alive with the sounds of dawn—birds chirping softly, leaves rustling as a gentle breeze danced through the trees. Despite the serene surroundings, an air of unease hung heavily over the camp. Juliana sat near the dying embers of the fire, staring at the faint wisps of smoke curling into the morning light.
Hak was beside her, sharpening his blade with the same calm intensity as always. His presence was grounding, but Juliana's thoughts were anything but steady. The Keeper's cryptic words still echoed in her mind, weaving a web of doubt and confusion she couldn't shake.
The Lingering Warning
"Juliana," Hak's voice broke through her thoughts. She looked up, startled, to find his piercing gaze locked on her. "What exactly did this... Keeper tell you?"
She hesitated, her fing
