Chapter 36: Snakes
The next day.
Leo, Lily, and James stood in front of the Beast Hall, waiting for the rest to arrive. None of them carried much — only their essentials. Their weapons were already in place: Leo's twin daggers hung at his waist, Lily's sword — the same one Arnold had dropped — rested diagonally across her back, and James wore his iron gauntlets, faint scratches marking the surface. All three were clad in light armour, fitted tight enough to guard their vitals without slowing their movements.
The morning air was crisp, carrying the earthy scent of dew-soaked soil. As they discussed the upcoming hunt and the dangers of the treants, the steady rhythm of approaching footsteps reached them.
"Jaaames," a voice drawled, stretched with mockery.
A man stepped into view, his smug grin barely hiding the arrogance behind his half-lidded eyes. Two others followed close behind, swords clinking lightly at their waists.
