Ranks

Next day they moved slower than before, with no guarantee they will be allowed in, why rush.

No one had much to say after last night's argument. Luna kept glancing at him with sad eyes, but he avoided her gaze. Vess walked ahead, her steps stiff and determined. Selene seemed to be the only one unbothered by the tension.

"The path gets steeper from here," she said, breaking the silence. "We should reach the border of Section B by nightfall if we keep a steady pace."

He adjusted his sword. The wounds still ached, but he could move without wincing now. "Let's just get this over with."

They walked through the forest, following the path as it wound between tall trees. Birds sang overhead, and sunlight filtered through the leaves in golden patches. It would have been peaceful if not for the heaviness between them.

After a few hours, they stopped by a small stream to rest and drink. Luther sat apart from the others, staring at his reflection in the water.