The rhythmic pounding of hooves against the earth filled the vast expanse of the forest as Kael and Riven rode side by side, their cloaks billowing behind them. The dense canopy overhead filtered the golden light of the setting sun, casting long shadows across the narrow trail. It had been an hour since they had departed, and the silence of the wilderness was filled only by the sounds of nature—and Riven's incessant chatter.
"I must say," Riven mused as he adjusted his grip on the reins, "this new hair color of mine is quite the look. Don't you think it adds a touch of mystery?" He ran a gloved hand through his now-black locks, grinning. "Perhaps I should keep it."
Kael, who had long since perfected the art of ignoring him, simply kept her gaze ahead, focused on the trail.
"You're not even going to comment?" Riven feigned offense. "I miss the days when you used to at least glare at me."
Kael sighed, finally sparing him a glance. "It's been only two months since I meet you, Riven. It's not like I've known you my whole life. So two days without you wasn't exactly the hardship you think it was."
Riven clutched his chest dramatically. "How cruel. I've spent these last two days mourning your absence."
Kael fought the twitch of amusement threatening to pull at her lips. "I highly doubt that."
He smirked, leaning slightly toward her. "So you admit you missed me?"
She kicked her horse forward slightly, leaving him behind.
Riven chuckled. "I'll take that as a yes."
The deeper they traveled, the more the forest seemed to come alive. Strange glowing insects flitted through the air, their golden wings casting brief trails of light. The trees whispered with the wind, and the rustling of unseen creatures created an ambiance both enchanting and eerie.
Among the thick undergrowth, small, luminescent creatures scurried between tree roots. Kael's sharp eyes spotted a tiny, winged rabbit-like being perched on a mossy log, its oversized ears twitching as it observed them with intelligent black eyes. Another, fox-like with delicate butterfly wings, hovered above a branch, its tail swaying like the leaves in the breeze.
"They're called Aeliths," Riven said, noticing her gaze. "Harmless little creatures. Some say they can lead lost travelers to safety… or to their doom."
Kael rolled her eyes. "Let me guess, you've tamed one before?"
"I tried," Riven admitted. "But they have surprisingly high standards for companionship."
Kael smirked. "Even they think you're annoying."
Riven gasped, placing a hand over his heart. "You wound me again sweetheart."
They continued forward, Kael taking note of the shifts in the terrain. The path was growing more uneven, and the trees became thicker. The scent of damp earth filled the air, mingling with the crisp scent of pine.
And then, Kael's senses prickled.
Ahead, a dark figure loomed—a hulking beast crouched near the base of a tree, its golden eyes gleaming in the dim light.
Kael immediately pulled her horse to a stop. Riven did the same, his body instantly tensed.
"What is it?" She asked, already reaching for his swords.
Riven narrowed his eyes. "Trouble."
The creature stirred. A monstrous hybrid of bear and wolf, its thick fur was tangled with leaves and moss, blending seamlessly into the forest. Its breath came out in ragged huffs, and its claws, each as long as a dagger, sank into the earth.
"Great," Riven muttered. "An Urthgor."
Kael's fingers tightened around her bow. "You know this thing?"
"Enough to know it doesn't like company." Riven's voice lowered. "If we run, it will chase us. If we fight, it will try to rip us apart."
Kael sighed. "As always, wonderful options."
The beast let out a guttural growl.
Kael didn't hesitate. She lifted her bow, nocked two arrows at once, and let them fly.
The arrows struck true—one in each of its glowing eyes. The creature howled in agony, its massive body thrashing as it reared back.
Riven seized the opportunity. He leaped from his horse, blades flashing in the dim light. With a swift motion, he carved deep into the creature's legs, severing tendons and forcing it to collapse.
Before it could recover, Kael was already moving. She leapt from her horse, landing with grace before drawing another arrow. She aimed directly for the beast's exposed throat and fired.
The Urthgor let out one final, choking gasp before slumping into stillness.
Riven wiped his blade on the grass. "Well, that was fun."
Kael exhaled slowly, watching the corpse for any signs of movement. "We should collect parts we can sell in Saint-Aure."
Riven smirked. "See? You're already thinking like an adventurer."
She shot him a look. "Shut up and help."
Together, they harvested the valuable parts of the Urthgor—its fangs, claws, and a portion of its hide—before continuing on their path.
By the time the sun dipped below the horizon, they found a clearing to make camp. Kael gathered firewood while Riven set up a basic perimeter.
Soon, the flames crackled, casting warm flickers of light against their surroundings. The sounds of the forest had shifted—night birds called in the distance, and unseen creatures rustled in the underbrush.
Kael sat across from Riven, tearing a piece of dried meat between her teeth. "Tomorrow, we should reach the trade route by midday."
Riven nodded, staring at the fire. "And then we pretend to be a pair of humble adventurers."
Kael smirked. "You? Humble?"
He grinned. "I can act."
Kael snorted, shaking her head. A comfortable silence stretched between them, the warmth of the fire easing the tension from the day.
And then, Riven spoke, his tone softer. "You know… I didn't expect you to thank me earlier."
Kael looked up, brow arching. "For what?"
"For the horses. For the effort." His smirk was gone now, replaced by something quieter. "You're not really the type."
Kael stared at him for a moment. "Maybe you just don't know me as well as you think."
Riven chuckled. "Oh, I think I do."
Kael took another bite of her food. "Then you should know that if you keep talking, I'll make you take the first watch."
Riven held up his hands. "Fine, fine. But I will say—"
Kael threw a piece of bread at him.
He caught it with a laugh. "Admit it, you enjoy my company."
She huffed. "Go to sleep, Riven."
As the fire crackled between them, Riven watched her for a moment longer before leaning back against the log, a lazy grin on his lips.
Kael turned away, hiding the small, almost imperceptible smile that threatened to form.
Tomorrow, their journey into Varendel would truly begin. But tonight, under the canopy of stars and surrounded by the quiet hum of the wilds, she allowed herself this one fleeting moment of peace.
Even if Riven was still insufferable.