The attack came under the cover of darkness. From my position on the village's edge, I heard the first snap of a branch in the forest.
The sound, so small yet full of intent, sent an electric jolt through me, sharpening my senses. I tightened my grip, readying my magic.
Through the gloom, figures materialized, moving with quiet purpose. The villagers' traps well-hidden nets, ropes, and small pitfalls waited like silent predators in the night.
My heart pounded as the bandits crept closer, oblivious to the snares lying in wait.
I signaled to the villagers stationed with me, giving a nod to Lara and Joran, who stood on either side of me, bows in hand.
The instant they entered our line of sight, Lara let her arrow fly. It struck the first bandit, a hulking figure with a club, in the shoulder. He grunted in pain, stumbling back, and his comrades froze, surprise flickering across their faces.