The forest path stretched ahead of them like a ribbon of packed earth winding through towering oaks and ancient pines. Evening shadows had begun to lengthen, filtering the dying sunlight into dappled patterns that danced across the forest floor. The air carried the crisp scent of pine needles and the distant promise of wood smoke from settlements ahead.
Yomi set their pace with the steady rhythm of someone accustomed to long journeys, his newly acquired clothes fitting him with practiced ease. The leather harness distributed weight evenly across his frame, while the hooded cloak provided protection from the evening chill that had begun to creep through the trees. Behind him, Lirien navigated with the confidence of someone who had studied maps and trade routes, though she deferred to his judgment on matters of safety and timing.
