The Shifting Shadows

The settlement came into view as the sun sank lower on the horizon, its wooden palisade bathed in the dim orange glow of twilight. Smoke curled lazily from chimneys, a deceptive sign of peace that clashed with the storm brewing in Adira's gut. She slowed her pace, her companions following suit, each scanning the outskirts for threats.

"Looks quiet," Kane murmured, though his hand hovered near his dagger. "Too quiet."

"Let's hope it stays that way," Kael said, his tone clipped as his gaze darted across the open fields leading to the settlement.

Adira raised a hand, signaling them to stop. "We approach carefully. We don't know what's already waiting for us inside."

The young man they had rescued, Lorin, stumbled forward, his eyes wide with a mix of desperation and hope. "Please, they'll listen to me. Just let me go ahead. I can—"

"No," Adira interrupted, her voice firm. "We don't know if this place is compromised yet. Stay close."