The cool morning air carried tension as Kyle stepped outside, his sharp eyes narrowing at the sight of a large group approaching the village from beyond the fields.
The sun had barely begun to rise, casting long shadows across the land and outlining the advancing figures in a golden hue.
Their presence, slow and steady, stirred panic among the villagers.
Murmurs of fear rippled through the crowd as people ducked behind homes or clutched their children tightly.
The village chief stood beside Kyle, wide-eyed and unsure.
"W-We don't have soldiers… If they're raiders or slavers…"
But Kyle raised a hand calmly.
"I have a hunch about who they are. May I go out to meet them first?"
The chief looked hesitant.
"It's too dangerous alone—"
"I'll be fine."
Kyle interrupted. His tone left no room for argument.
After a brief nod from the chief, Kyle walked forward, every step measured and quiet, mana flowing lightly under his skin, ready to react if needed.
