They spent the night by the riverside, fishing quietly and refilling their water supplies. After a long day of battles and travel, everyone finally settled down to rest. The crackling fire and the gentle lapping of water against the shore accompanied their slow descent into sleep.
But Julian was the first to awaken. His eyes snapped open as he sensed something amiss. Around the camp, some of the zombies he had restrained with his [Domination] skill lay dead, a sign that something was coming.
He rose silently and began waking the others.
Veronica rubbed her eyes, still half-asleep. "Hmm… is it morning already?"
Julian's voice was steady but urgent. "Get ready. We have company."
The others stirred, hastily gathering their gear.
Zoe, her senses sharp even in the early light, counted softly, "Twelve."
Julian nodded. "I'll go out front. Stay here for now."
Celestia stepped forward. "I'm coming with you."
Together, Julian and Celestia moved to meet the unexpected visitors.
