The trail twisted and turned, much more winding than Agnes had said. The supposed 'shortcut' was getting longer, leading Viana deeper into unknown land. The trees grew thicker, older, their trunks rough and scarred. The path itself became faint, sometimes almost disappearing under big roots and scattered stones.
Viana's mare neighed nervously, its ears twitching. She kept a firm hand on the reins, speaking soothing words to the scared animal.
Suddenly, a loud, deep roar ripped through the quiet woods. Viana's mare stood on its back legs, neighing in terror, its eyes wide and white.
Viana, with years of riding experience, held on. She calmed the frightened horse with firm hands and a steady voice, her forest blessing ability helping her, though her own heart pounded hard against her ribs.
