Dawn broke cold and gray, the sky heavy with clouds as the warriors prepared to leave camp. The weight of the coming battle hung over them all.
Elyndra moved among them quietly, checking supplies, listening to their murmurs. Though her powers were still locked, her presence was the heart that held them together.
Porco scampered around, making sure no one left without their gear. "Don't leave me behind!" he squeaked.
Rael tightened the straps on his sword belt, glancing at Elyndra. "You ready for this?"
She met his gaze. "As ready as I'll ever be."
The journey to Blackthorn Forest was treacherous—twisting paths, dense fog, and the ever-present feeling of unseen eyes watching their every step.
At night, as the group camped, they took turns keeping watch. Around the fire, the tension gave way to rare moments of laughter.
"Remember when Ronin tried to impress Elyndra by juggling knives?" Kairon teased, grinning.
Ronin flushed. "I did not cut myself once!"
"Once is too many," Thorne muttered dryly.
Elyndra smiled softly, feeling warmth she hadn't known she needed.
But beneath the laughter, the demon's shadow grew darker, and the forest seemed alive with menace.
Something was waiting for them in Blackthorn.