MOONBOUND

Shadows in the mist

The forest was thick with mist, shrouding the trees and underbrush in a ghostly veil as Amelia and her companions pressed on. The seer's warnings echoed in their minds, and the weight of the artifact hung heavily in Amelia's pack. Every rustle of leaves and snap of twigs sent their senses on high alert, aware that danger lurked in every shadow.

- This mist is making it hard to see - Amelia said, her voice barely a whisper as she tightened her grip on her weapon. - We need to stay close and watch each other's backs.

Marcus nodded, his eyes scanning the fog-shrouded surroundings. - Agreed. The mist can hide many dangers. We must be vigilant.

Evelyn moved to take her position at the rear, her steps cautious. - I'll keep watch from the back. Let's move carefully. We can't afford to be ambushed.

Their progress was slow, the mist closing in around them like a living entity. It was as if the forest itself was trying to confuse and disorient them, each step more treacherous than the last. The dense fog muffled their footsteps, creating an eerie silence that heightened their senses.

Amelia led the way, consulting the seer's map and trying to keep them on the right path. - According to the seer's directions, we should be heading northeast. We can't let the mist throw us off course.

- The forest is playing tricks on us - Marcus muttered, his voice tense. - We need to rely on our instincts as well. Trust in the path, and in each other.

- We'll find our way - Evelyn added, her eyes scanning the dense foliage around them. - We've faced worse. We can handle this.

They moved cautiously, their senses on high alert. The forest was alive with the sounds of nature, but it felt different now—more threatening. The mist seemed to amplify every sound, making it hard to tell where the dangers might be lurking. The atmosphere was thick with tension, each step a reminder of the peril they faced.

- Do you feel that? - Amelia asked, her voice barely audible. - It's like the forest is holding its breath.

Marcus nodded, his expression serious. - We're close. Stay vigilant. The seer's hut should be nearby. We need to keep our guard up.

As they pressed on, they started noticing signs of habitation—symbols carved into trees, small paths, and other subtle indications that they were nearing their destination. The air grew colder, and an eerie silence fell over the woods, adding to the sense of foreboding.

- Look at these carvings - Amelia said, pointing to a tree with intricate symbols etched into its bark. - They must be the seer's markings.

- We're on the right track - Marcus confirmed. - Keep moving. The anticipation is killing me. What will she be like?

Just then, a rustling sound came from the bushes nearby. Amelia's hand went to her weapon instinctively.

- Stay alert - she whispered. - Something's out there.

Out of the mist emerged a mysterious figure, cloaked in a dark robe. The figure moved slowly toward them, and they tightened their grip on their weapons, ready for anything.

- You must be Amelia and her companions - the stranger said, his voice calm and steady. - The seer sent me to guide you through the mist.

Amelia's eyes narrowed in suspicion. - How do we know we can trust you?

The stranger raised his hands in a gesture of peace, revealing a small, ornate token. - The seer knew you would be wary. She said to show you this.

The token bore the same intricate symbols they had seen carved into the trees. It eased their suspicion, but they remained cautious.