Location: Tardide Village → Deep Forest → Cave System
Time: Day 511 | Telia: Day 2
Realm: Dimension 137 (Telia)
Dawn came cold and grey, the kind of morning that made smart people stay indoors.
Jayde stood at Tardide's east gate, checking her equipment with the methodical precision of someone who'd learned that mistakes in the field got people killed. Blade sharp. Water flasks full. Medical supplies accessible. Reiko at her side, alert and ready.
The village was quiet except for the handful of people who'd come to see her off.
Elder Ryunzo looked like he hadn't slept. "You're certain you don't want more men? Behro and Jinko are excellent trackers—"
"They are," Jayde agreed. "Which is why I need them here. If something goes wrong, if I don't come back, the village still needs its hunters."
Risk mitigation: Civilian casualties unacceptable. Solo operations reduce exposure.
Mrs. Ryunzo pressed a wrapped bundle into her hands. "Food. For the journey. It's not much, but—"
