Into the Unknown

Rodrick clasped Varin's forearm in farewell, the merchant's rough grip firm as he gave a knowing nod.

"Take care on the roads," Rodrick said.

"And you in the village. Strange times ahead," Varin replied before mounting his cart and urging the horses forward. The wooden wheels groaned against the dirt path as he disappeared into the distance. Rodrick watched him go, his expression unreadable.

Nearby, Leon adjusted the belt around his waist, his sword resting at his hip. His fingers lingered over the worn leather, tracing the indentations left by years of use. The weight of the weapon was reassuring yet heavy with unspoken expectations. His muscles tensed beneath his sleeves, the rough callouses on his hands a testament to endless training. He exhaled slowly, steadying his mind. This isn't just another drill. This is real. His gaze flicked toward Arden, the vice leader, who stood in front of the assembled scouts: Elena, Jonas, and Marcus. Their expressions varied—Elena looked composed, Jonas eager, and Marcus slightly apprehensive.

Arden cleared his throat. "We're heading into the forest to search for the missing companion of the injured man. We also need to investigate the strange occurrences reported in the area. Keep your weapons ready and your wits about you."

Jonas smirked, patting the handle of his axe. "Can't be that bad, right?"

Arden's eyes darkened. "Underestimate the unknown, and it'll tear your throat out. Stay together."

Leon shifted on his feet, his fingers brushing the hilt of his sword. He had always wanted to leave the village, to explore beyond its stifling borders. But now that he was stepping into the unknown, unease crawled up his spine.

Why do I feel like something is watching us?

The group moved out, stepping beyond the village's boundary into the dense forest. The air grew thick, the trees casting elongated shadows that danced with every movement. The silence was oppressive, interrupted only by the crunch of boots against fallen leaves.

A sudden rustling stopped the group in their tracks.

Elena whispered, "Something's moving."

Before anyone could react, two small, hunched creatures scuttled from the underbrush—Grimlets. Their gnarled limbs twitched, sharp teeth glinting as they emitted guttural clicks.

"Grimlets! Defensive stance!" Arden commanded, drawing his sword.

SHING!

Leon unsheathed his weapon, the steel catching the dim light. His grip tightened around the hilt as he steadied his breathing. This is it, he thought. No turning back now. The weight of the blade was familiar, yet in this moment, it felt heavier—like the responsibility pressing down on him. He glanced at his companions, noting their stances, their determination. His heart pounded in his chest, not with fear, but with the thrill of battle. He had trained for this. Now, it was time to prove himself. Jonas charged first, his axe carving through the air with a deep WHOOSH! The Grimlet dodged, its clawed fingers scraping across Jonas' armor with a sharp SCRRAATCH!

Elena's bowstring thrummed as she released an arrow—TWANG!—striking one Grimlet in the shoulder. It screeched but remained standing.

Leon met the second Grimlet head-on, his sword cutting downward in a controlled arc—SCHIING!—the creature barely leapt back in time. It retaliated with a lunge, claws aiming for his throat.

CLANG! Leon deflected the strike, the force rattling through his arms.

Arden moved like a seasoned fighter, his blade sweeping low—SWISH!—severing one Grimlet's leg. It howled before Marcus finished it with a thrust of his spear—THUNK! The body slumped to the ground.

The last Grimlet hissed, retreating into the foliage.

The group panted, the brief encounter leaving them tense.

Marcus wiped his brow. "That was… faster than I expected."

"That was only two," Arden muttered. "Keep moving."

They pressed deeper into the woods, unaware of the unseen eyes watching them from the darkness.