Chapter 36: Snakes
The next day.
Leo, Lily, and James stood in front of the Beast Hall, waiting for the others to arrive. None of them carried much—only their essentials.
Their weapons were already in place: Leo's twin daggers rested at his waist, Lily's sword—the one Leo had snatched from Arnold—was strapped diagonally across her back, and James wore his iron gauntlets, their surface marked with faint scratches.
All three were clad in light armor, fitted tight enough to protect their vitals without restricting their movements.
The morning air was crisp, carrying the earthy scent of dew-soaked soil. As they discussed the upcoming hunt and the dangers of the treants, the steady rhythm of approaching footsteps reached them.
"Jaaames," a voice called, stretched with mockery.
A man stepped into view, a smug grin tugging at his lips, barely hiding the arrogance behind his half-lidded eyes. Two others followed close behind him, their swords clinking lightly at their waists.
