The forest sank deeper into darkness with every passing minute. The crowns of the trees pressed against a heavy violet-black sky, while the scattered cries of birds echoed between the trunks — as if nature itself were awaiting the night. Small creatures rustled through the bushes, adding their soft whispers to the growing silence. The air carried the scent of damp earth mingled with the distant breeze of fallen dry leaves, rendering the entire forest heavier and more mysterious.
The goblins returned in small groups, dragging bundles of firewood and whispering among themselves. They piled the wood in the center and set it alight. Flames leaped upward, sending gray smoke spiraling carelessly into the night; the firelight danced across their green faces, making their already terrifying features appear even more savage.
