The trio decided to take a break by a wide, shimmering river.
The water was clear and cold, flowing down from the mountains they had left behind.
They sat by the bank to rest their horses and eat a quick meal.
Suddenly, a rustling sound came from the tall, thick grass behind them.
It wasn’t the sound of the wind or a small animal.
It sounded like someone—or something—was hiding there.
The laughter about the sweet shop vanished instantly.
In one smooth motion, Aira, Ria, and Kael stood up.
The sound of three swords sliding out of their sheaths rang out at the same time.
Their eyes were sharp, and their bodies were tense.
They didn’t speak.
They didn’t need to.
They moved together as a team, slowly approaching the long grass with their weapons ready to attack.
Every step was silent.
The only sound was the rushing river and the heavy beating of their hearts.
Whatever was behind that grass was about to face the three best warriors of the North.