Chapter 4 — Friction on the Trail

Alternating (Aiden/Zara)

The chill in the forest air bit sharply, laced with the faint scent of damp earth and pine needles. Shadows stretched long and thin as the sun dipped lower, casting a muted glow over the rugged terrain. Aiden led the way, his shoulders taut beneath his leather jacket, every step deliberate and silent on the moss-covered ground. His hand occasionally brushed the hilt of the Moonsteel Dagger at his belt, the weapon's faint hum a quiet reassurance. Yet, even its comfort couldn’t temper the storm of unease roiling within him.