Adventures in the Sacred Forest

Chapter 9: Shadows of Escape

Almas stirred from his sleep as Creetan's arm flopped onto him, jolting him awake. He grumbled and pushed his brother's arm aside, about to settle back into slumber when he heard Creetan's hushed voice, barely audible.

"Almas, pretend to wake me up," Creetan whispered, feigning sleep. "Tell me you need to go take care of business, but you're scared to go alone. We need to talk."

Curiosity piqued, Almas followed his brother's lead, shaking him gently and pretending concern. "Creetan, wake up! I really need to go take care of something, but I'm scared to go alone."

Creetan stirred, his eyes fluttering open as he groggily sat up. "What's the matter, Almas?"

"I need to go... you know, do my business," Almas said, gesturing towards the trees. "But it's dark out there, and I don't want to go alone. Will you come with me?"

Creetan nodded, playing along. They both rose from their bedrolls, making their way towards the outskirts of the camp where they could speak without being overheard.

Once they were out of earshot, Creetan leaned in closer to Almas, his voice barely a whisper. "Listen, Almas. Something's not right with this escort. They're heading straight towards the Vatan Province, controlled by the Lich Lords. We need to find a chance to escape."

Almas's eyes widened with a mix of fear and determination. The Lich Lords were a formidable force, and being caught in their clutches meant certain doom. Almas knew they had to seize any opportunity that presented itself.

"When the moment comes and I tell you to run, don't hesitate," Creetan continued, his voice filled with urgency. "We can't afford to be caught. Stick close to me, and we'll find a way to escape."

Almas nodded, his heart pounding in his chest. He understood the gravity of the situation and the need to trust his brother's instincts. They couldn't let themselves be led into the clutches of the Lich Lords.

But time was of the essence. Almas glanced back towards the camp, knowing that their prolonged absence would raise suspicions. With a silent agreement, they returned to their bedrolls, their minds swirling with plans and uncertainties.

As they settled back into sleep, Almas couldn't help but feel a mix of anticipation and trepidation. The next day would bring challenges they couldn't yet fathom, but they were resolved to face them together, brothers bound by an unbreakable bond.

In the darkness of the night, their dreams were filled with flickers of escape, their imaginations conjuring pathways to freedom.