Chapter 60: The Island of beautiful women II
The scout Zenas had sent ahead returned, reporting that the area was clear of immediate threats.
Zenas relayed the information to Ceremus, who gave a curt nod. "We'll move further inland and find a place to rest for the night," he instructed.
With the king leading the way, his guard and the envoy followed, stepping onto the island's soil. They were immediately greeted by lush greenery, the crisp scent of damp earth and foliage filling the air. For many of the men, it was a welcome contrast to the crowded streets of the city. But for Hael, this was nothing new—he had spent most of his life surrounded by nature.
Yet something felt... off.
Hael's senses, honed by his time living in the wild, told him they were not alone. The rustling of leaves, the faint but steady disturbance in the air—he could feel the presence of unseen eyes watching them.
Beside him, Ceremus, though more accustomed to palaces than forests, was no fool. His instincts, sharpened by years of battle, detected the presence of others. He subtly shifted his stance, fingers flexing, ready to pummel anyone who got in their way.
Their eyes met.
Without a word, Hael's hand drifted toward his weapon, his grip firm.
The rest of the men, unaware of the tension brewing between their leaders, walked on in oblivious ease.
Then, just as they were about to press deeper into the island, a lone figure emerged from the shadows ahead, striding toward them.
The figure was a woman—tall, with long black hair cascading past her waist. She was shrouded in layers, her body concealed beneath a faded green tunic and a black cloak, with a shawl draped over her head. As she walked, a faint clinking sound accompanied her steps, and Ceremus's sharp eyes quickly noted that she was barefoot.