Arrival at Lapi

His left hand rested firmly on his sheath, as if to say to himself that his sword was still there and would defend him if anything happened.

In the lead, Maxime scanned the road, his keen eyes searching for the slightest sign of movement. His silhouette stood out from the shadows, imposing and determined.

He knew that the survival of his mercenaries depended on his ability to stay one step ahead of the menace that was chasing them.

The narrow path they took wound through a dense pine forest. Low branches clung to their clothes, as if trying to hold them back.

Ultia abruptly returned to them, her face taut with worry.

"Chief, we've got to stop. I heard suspicious noises up ahead. It could be an orc patrol."

Maxime thought for a moment, weighing the risk of stopping against the risk of being ambushed.

"All right, halt here. Everyone, complete silence and camouflage yourselves behind the trees and bushes."