The group took a detour, just as Mikhailis had suggested, avoiding the treacherous territory of the Skorak. The path they chose was narrow and winding, with steep cliffs rising to one side and sudden drop-offs plunging into unknown depths on the other. The forest canopy above grew denser the further they traveled, blocking out the sun and creating an eerie, twilight-like atmosphere even though it was still midday. The air grew colder, and strange sounds echoed from the depths of the forest—low rustlings, distant growls, and whispers carried by the wind.
Lira, who usually carried herself with an air of composed grace, was beginning to look visibly unsettled. Her eyes darted to every shadow that moved, her hand trembling slightly as it rested on her lap. Estella, whose earlier confidence had made her seem untouchable, wasn't faring much better. Her eyes shifted anxiously, darting from one side of the path to the other, her face tense. Without even realizing it, she clung to Mikhailis's arm, her fingers digging into his sleeve, seeking reassurance.
Rhea, on the other hand, took advantage of the opportunity the unsettling atmosphere presented. She leaned into Mikhailis, letting out small, dramatic gasps every ti a branch rustled or a shadow moved. She snuggled herself closer against his side, her eyes wide as she looked around.
"Milord, do you think there could be monsters lurking out there?" she whispered, her voice trembling.
Mikhailis glanced at her, trying not to smile. He could see right through her act. "Monsters, you say? Oh, for sure. I bet there are at least three or four terrible beasts waiting to jump out at any mont," he said, his voice playful.
Rhea gasped, clinging even tighter to his arm, her head resting against his shoulder.
"Oh, Milord! You'll protect , won't you?" she asked, her eyes fluttering up at him.
Mikhailis chuckled, shaking his head.
She really knows how to put on a show.
He gently patted her hand, giving her a reassuring smile.
"Of course, Rhea. I'll make sure no monsters eat you. I an Cerys and Vyrelda wil," He glanced at Lira, who was sitting stiffly beside him, her eyes focused ahead, trying to ignore Rhea's antics. Estella, on his other side, let out an exasperated sigh, though she didn't let go of his arm.
"Honestly, Rhea, must you be so dramatic?" Estella muttered, though her grip on Mikhailis remained just as tight.
"I can't help it, Lady Estella," Rhea replied, her voice soft and innocent.
"I'm just so frightened." She nuzzled against Mikhailis's shoulder, earning another sigh from Estella.
Vyrelda, who was driving the wagon, kept her gaze focused ahead, her jaw tight. Her sharp eyes scanned the path, her back straight, radiating confidence. Though she appeared unfazed, Mikhailis could tell she was on high alert. The horses sensed the tension too; their ears flicked back and forth, their hooves moving cautiously over the uneven ground.
Cerys, riding alongside the wagon, was unusually quiet. Her usual aloof deanor was even more pronounced, her face unreadable as her horse began to fidget beneath her, its ears twitching nervously. The animal's steps faltered, and Mikhailis noticed Cerys's posture stiffen.
"Cerys, are you sure you're fine?" Mikhailis called out, leaning forward to get a better look at her.
Cerys didn't respond at first, her focus entirely on keeping her horse calm. Her lips were pressed into a thin line, her eyes staring straight ahead. Mikhailis frowned, worry creasing his brow.
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