Chapter 53: Trails of Blackwood (Part-I)

It was during one of the quiet moments, as the sun began to set behind the towering trees, that Lucian heard it—a faint, almost imperceptible whisper on the wind. At first, he thought it was just the sound of the forest, the creaking of branches or the rustle of leaves. But as he stood still, listening more intently, the whisper grew louder, more distinct.

"Lucian…"

The voice was soft, almost melodic, but there was something unsettling about it, something that sent a shiver down his spine. He turned, his hand instinctively reaching for the hilt of his sword, but there was no one there. The forest was silent, save for the distant call of a bird and the rustle of the wind.

"Lucian…"

The voice came again, clearer this time, as if it were calling to him from the depths of the forest. He frowned, trying to pinpoint its source, but it seemed to be coming from everywhere and nowhere all at once.