The forest stretched endlessly around them, shadows twisting beneath the pale glow of the rising moon. Every rustle of leaves, every sigh of wind sounded sharper after their narrow escape. The night felt alive, almost sentient, pressing against them with unseen eyes. I'm starting to think the night is a character of its own, watching their every step.
By the time they found the cave, darkness had claimed the sky entirely. The air was thick with the scent of wet moss and earth, the quiet refuge hidden among twisted roots of ancient trees. A fragile sense of safety settled over them. I'm starting to think we've found a sanctuary, though the shadows still whispered warnings.
Ren ducked inside first, scanning the darkness with sharp, practiced eyes before motioning Lyra in.
"It's deep enoug
