Ivan and Elina, with Irene in tow, walked towards the clearing ahead. The flap of a nearby tent suddenly rustled open, accompanied by a low grunt. A man in his early thirties emerged. His deep brown hair was neatly trimmed, and his beards cleanly shaved. He had a stern look about him, but when he noticed Elina and Irene, his expression softened.
"You're back." The man said with a faint smile. "where did you find her?"
His eyes lingered on them briefly before shifting to Ivan. The warmth on his face vanished, replaced by a guarded frown.
"Who's that?" The man asked, his tone wary as his guard went up.
"Oh, he's just a young man I saw outside while I was searching for Irene. His name is Ivan and he's also leaving Tasvill after everything that happened. And since we most likely have the same destination I asked him to Join us" Elina explained with a smile.