The forest covered them completely while dead tree branches blocked the daylight above. The trees linked their branches into tight bonds like when fingers join for supplication or protective embrace. A chill pressed against their skin — not the cold of frost, but of something old, something that watched.
A lady in green and silver motioned them further into the woods as the manga of her robe glided across the ground. The forest accepted her presence as she moved without appearing to walk allowing the plants to welcome her without disturbing the nature.
"Who are you?" Lucian asked with his sword not yet ready to strike.
The woman turned her head toward them. "My name is Vael. President Vael leads the forest.
She marched alongside behind the woman without taking fast breaths anymore A second weak flame inside her chest continued to beat alongside the forest's soft breathing.
