The group walked down the forest path toward the village. Dry leaves crunched softly beneath their feet as they moved through the familiar trail.
Ethan walked ahead while chatting with Oliver, their voices relaxed after the sparring match.
Behind them, Amon and Scarlett walked side by side.
'Such a nice day.'
Soon the forest began to thin.
The wooden fences and small houses of the village slowly came into view.
A few villagers were already moving around, finishing their midday tasks. Some were carrying firewood, while others were returning from the fields.
The group continued walking deeper into the village.
"Finally," Ethan said while stretching his arms. "I was starving."
"You are always starving, Ethan," Katherine replied with a faint smile.
They turned toward the large wooden building near the center of the village.
The canteen.
It was already afternoon, and it was lunchtime.
The door creaked slightly as they pushed it open.
