The next morning, the forest remained just as still.
Broken was already waiting, perched on one of the upper branches, half-shrouded in fog and shadow. The sound of rustling leaves drew his attention, and soon, he spotted them—Hollow and his guild, emerging in a steady formation from between the twisted, towering trunks.
With a smooth motion, Broken leapt down, landing silently on the forest floor. He stood calmly, arms folded, as the large group approached, visibly worn from the long descent.
"How's the trip?" he asked.
"Hah. A complete waste of time," Hollow grumbled, brushing off his cloak. "But hey, adventure's adventure."
There was a moment of shared silence. It hit Broken then, somehow, without noticing it, they'd grown more familiar with each other. The edge of suspicion wasn't gone, but it was softer now.
Then Hollow nodded. "Come. You'll want to see this. It's something my scout team found earlier."
