Kai and Vepice stepped into the village as the last slivers of sunlight died behind the hills.
At first glance, it looked like the sort of place that had been forgotten by time.
It was just a single street of stone cottages, crooked fences, ivy-covered wells, and a windmill turning lazily beside a creek. A pale mist drifted near the ground. Lanterns glowed faintly on doorsteps, flickering orange against the dark blue sky. No walls. No guards. No noise.
Too quiet.
Kai extended his mana outward like a ripple in still water.
He stopped mid-step.
"Vepice," he murmured, voice low. "Be ready. We're not alone."
She didn't hesitate. Her hand drifted behind her back, fingertips brushing one of her throwing knives. Her stance changed, looser, quieter. Ready to dodge or fight.
