When Vors had warned them that this forest was extremely dangerous, Lavayla had imagined constant attacks—predators pouring out from every direction, no time to breathe, no chance to steady herself.
But reality proved to be the opposite.
They walked.
And walked.
And kept walking.
Three hours passed without a single beast appearing. Lavayla knew the exact amount of time only because she had quietly asked Nessa to keep track for her. The forest remained tense but strangely still, the kind of silence that felt deliberate rather than peaceful.
Just as that thought crossed her mind—
Maybe this part isn't as bad as they said—
A sudden rush of movement tore through the underbrush.
A low, vibrating growl rolled through the air, deep enough to be felt in the chest when heard. Every Beastman reacted instantly, heads snapping toward the sound.
Lavayla followed their gaze—and froze.
