Morning arrived, carried upon a cool breeze.
Thin mist still lingered among the rolling hills as the group began to prepare for their journey onward.
Dew clung to the grass, glistening like thousands of tiny crystals scattered along the winding path.
The previous night had passed without disturbance.
No anomalies.
No mysterious sounds.
No strange occurrences.
Only a peaceful night.
And after their experiences in the Valley of Echoes, such tranquility felt incredibly precious.
The entity beside Aurelia stirred gently.
Its line of light pulsed steadily, in harmony with its calm core.
The unit behind them maintained its protective network.
Kael stretched his limbs as soon as he stepped out of his tent.
"I slept like a log."
Ragnar, who was checking their supplies, raised an eyebrow.
"Remarkable."
"Why is that?"
"Because you usually complain nonstop."
"That is slander."
Orion spoke up immediately.
"Based on previous records, that statement is not slander."
