The sky began to change colors as Hana and Elli walked farther away from the castle gates. Tall trees loomed on both sides, blocking out the lowering rays of the evening sun. The narrow path beneath their feet grew smaller, overgrown with large roots and wild shrubs creeping along the edges.
"Elli, are you sure this is the way to the flower market?" Hana asked, trying to steady her breath. Her steps faltered, her long servant's skirt constantly snagging on grass and twigs. "Why does it feel like… we're going deeper into the forest?"
"Relax! This is a shortcut!" Elli answered quickly, not turning her head. She kept walking briskly ahead, her steps full of impatience. "If we take the usual road, it'll take twice as long. I've been through here before."
