The Alder road carried them beneath living branches, while roots shifted under the packed soil whenever the wagons crossed an old boundary mark.
Eirwen rode at the front with one hand on the green rail, and Hajin kept the refusal socket behind the second wagon where every traveler could see it.
Hajin watched the branches tighten overhead and thought, 'The road notices us,' resting his hand on the case, 'but noticing isn't the same as welcoming.'
Rumi and Nari walked ahead of the first wagon, with separate threads on each turn so the route could be followed without opening behind the party.
Vella had forbidden further strain, so Loccy rode beside the supply cart with only a rolled blanket before her next examination.
The Watcher followed with Ash against her shoulder, while the demon child sat beside Elina under a canvas cover that kept the branches from closing over her face.
