There were many sounds as I walked silently through the pitch-black forest: distant peacocks calling, branches and leaves cracking beneath my feet, and animals of the night making noise. Despite the late hour, I managed to move quickly because to my keen sense of smell.
Despite my racing heart from the narrow escape, I made an effort to maintain composure. My main goal now was to find Bustane. I inhaled deeply into my nose, taking in the refreshing aromas delivered by the chilly air.
There…I caught a hint of that familiar pine-like alpha smell. Relief washed over me he really was out here in this forest, seemingly oblivious to the trap laid out for him. My nose carried me forward, dodging the thorns and fallen trees on my way home to that signature scent.
The trees in front began to ope
