When the light fades, the world slams back into focus.
The Ashedge Clan materializes in the middle of a dense, sprawling forest—tall trees rising high overhead, their canopies blocking much of the midday sun. Mist coils low along the ground. The air is damp and heavy, filled with the hum of unseen insects and the distant calls of beasts.
For a heartbeat, no one moves.
Then Velira's voice cuts through the silence, sharp and immediate.
"Solven. Scout."
Solven doesn't hesitate. He nods once, adjusting the fastenings on his wrist-blade as he steps lightly forward.
"On it. I'll circle wide—stay within range," he says, already melting into the trees.
Velira turns to the others. "Form up. Defensive triangle. Karnessa, back left. Gresren, cover the right. Alix, with me up front."
