He raised one hand.The marching army immediately halted.Even the horses became quiet under the control of their experienced riders.
The discipline displayed by the Arcadian army was remarkable.
Ethan carefully observed everything before slowly shifting his gaze toward the distant exit of the gorge.
Only darkness waited there.
Yet somehow...
He felt as though countless unseen eyes were already staring back at them from beyond the shadows.
His instincts quietly warned him again.
Without saying anything, he slowly placed one hand upon the hilt of his greatsword.
The familiar touch steadied his thoughts.
Beside him, Duke Osantra noticed the small movement and spoke in a low voice.
"Nervous?"
Ethan let out a quiet breath.
"A little."
Then he looked straight ahead.
"But not enough to retreat."
The Duke gave a faint nod.
"Good."
"Because once we step out..."
"There will be no turning back."
For a brief moment, complete silence fell across the entire gorge.
Then...
