The group walked in silence as Lucian led them through the trees. Their steps were unsteady, exhaustion heavy on their shoulders, but none dared to speak.
Each time the wind rustled the branches above, the rescued families glanced around nervously, as though the elders might suddenly return.
Lucian moved with certainty, his cloak swaying with each step. Eventually, he stopped at the mouth of a narrow path that wound deeper into the valley.
The land here was quiet, shielded by jagged rocks that almost seemed to guard the entrance.
Moreover, the spell casted by the fairies guarded the entrance as well, making the space truly safe for anyone living inside.
He turned to face the group, his sharp gaze sweeping across them.
"Before you go any further, you will all sign the contract."
He said, his tone calm but firm.
