The moon hung high in the sky, casting a silvery light over the dense forest as Aiden, Patrick, and James made their way through the underbrush. The air was thick with the scent of pine and damp earth, the rustling of leaves the only sound breaking the silence between them.
Patrick led the way, his steps confident and assured, while Aiden followed closely, his eyes flitting warily to the shadows that seemed to shift and dance in the corners of his vision.
James brought up the rear, his sword drawn and ready, his expression a mixture of excitement and nervous anticipation. He hacked at the overgrown branches that obstructed their path, muttering under his breath with every swing.
"Is it much farther?" James asked, trying to keep the anxiety from creeping into his voice.
"Not too far," Patrick replied smoothly, his tone casual as if they were on a simple evening stroll.