GOTTA GO NOW

     In a serene valley, the village sprawled out, embraced by rolling, green hills. Cobbled streets wound between clusters of charming, thatched-roof cottages, their walls a blend of weathered stone and faded yellow. The air carried the earthy aroma of hay and woodsmoke, mixing with a touch of wild herbs.

A small brook meandered through the heart of the village, its crystal waters catching the moonlight like scattered diamonds. The bridge that arched over it was a simple structure of worn timber, with an ivy-covered railing.

As twilight fell, the village glowed warmly with the light of oil lamps, their flickering flames casting long, dancing shadows across the cobblestones.

"That's the place," Haruko said, her eyes scanning the darkened village. "The pregnant woman was brought back to her father."

"Where do we start looking? People are home, no one's outside," I said, pulling my neck gaiter up.