As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the forest path, Kyle finally let out a small breath.
The eerie presence he had sensed earlier had vanished.
There was nothing unusual lurking nearby—not anymore.
Still, Kyle remained cautious.
He turned to the Head Knight and asked.
"Are we coming up on another village soon?"
The Head Knight nodded, guiding her horse forward.
"Yes. We should reach the nearest village in about ten minutes."
Kyle's eyes narrowed slightly.
Ten minutes?
That was strange.
He had a keen sense of his surroundings, and yet, he didn't feel the presence of a village anywhere nearby.
Normally, even before a settlement came into view, there would be signs—distant voices, cooking fires, the scent of livestock or fresh bread, the warmth of human life.
But this time, there was nothing.
Only silence.
Melissa noticed his tense expression and frowned.
"Is something wrong, my lord?"
Kyle was quiet for a moment before answering.
