As the group makes their way toward the outskirts of Elderglen, an unfamiliar figure emerges from the line of trees encircling the village. The traveler moves with a deliberate pace, their cloak billowing slightly in the gentle breeze that whispers through the leaves. The cloak is a deep forest green, worn and patched in places, but it speaks of many journeys and untold stories. Elara pauses, her keen elven senses picking up the subtle details of the newcomer's approach: the sound of footsteps on the forest floor, the light rustle of fabric, the scent of pine and earth that lingers in the air. She raises her hand, signaling the others to stop. "Someone's coming," she murmurs, her voice low but firm, her eyes fixed on the traveler now standing at the edge of the clearing. Thorbek, standing beside her, squints against the sunlight. His hand instinctively rests on the hilt of his weapon, though his demeanor remains calm. "A stranger, it seems," Thorbek observes, his voice like gravel. "I wonder what brings them here." Pippin, ever curious, stirs, a playful smile appearing on his lips. "There's only one way to find out," he suggests, looking at Elara for approval.
Pippin, ever curious, stirs, a playful smile appearing on his lips. "There's only one way to find out," he suggests, looking at Elara for approval. Groth, who had been watching silently, nods in agreement. The Orc's eyes, usually shadowed by a serious brow, seem to soften with interest. "We should see what they want," he says, his voice a low rumble. The traveler, now closer, lowers his hood, revealing a face marked by the marks of age and wisdom. A pair of bright, curious eyes examine the group with a mixture of caution and intrigue, and a slight smile appears on his lips. They carry a staff, worn by years of use, topped with a small crystal that catches the sunlight with a faint glow. Elara steps forward, her posture open but cautious, signaling her intention to engage. "Greetings, traveler," she calls out, her voice warm and welcoming. "What brings you to Elderglen?"