(Far From the Palace)
Night settled over the forest like a heavy blanket. A lone carriage moved quietly down the narrow dirt path, its wheels creaking over the soft, damp earth. The trees on either side stood tall and close, their canopy blocking most of the moon's light.
The horses snorted and huffed out warm air, their hooves thudding softly as they pulled the carriage forward. Four guards rode alongside, four in front, five behind. Their armor clinked lightly with every movement. All of them were tense, alert, and watchful.
"Isn't the forest too quiet, There is not even a sound of birds or insects. Something is not right." One of the guards in the back said, his eyes scanning the forest.
"I think you are just overreacting… this part of the forest is mostly silent. And what could possibly go wrong with nine high mages guarding the carriage?" The other guard said with a proud smirk.
"But do you have an idea of what we are transporting?" Another guard asked.
