Next Day
...
The forest began just past the eastern gate of Ginip.
At dawn, the mist still clung to the ground, white ribbons that swirled around boots and horse hooves. The eastern glade stretched out like a quiet sea of grass, ending at a dark wall of trees. The Blackroot Forest.
Kael stood with his arms crossed, cloak drawn tight against the cool air. His adventurers were gathering—Red Band to his right, Sand Hunters to his left. Seris stood just behind him, her sword already strapped to her back. She wore her usual calm mask, but her sharp eyes scanned every corner of the field.
Leonard Matgorat waited with his guards near the front. He wore light armor, polished but practical, and a green cloak pinned at his shoulder. The young noble's expression was serious, but not heavy. He looked as though he had been waiting for this moment for years.
"Are they ready?" Leonard asked.
Kael gave a short nod. "They're prepared. They'll follow my orders."
