The campfire crackled, casting a warm glow over the makeshift campsite where Julie and Skadi sat, the flickering light dancing across their faces.
Two tents stood nearby, their canvas flaps rustling faintly in the cold winter breeze, while a kettle bubbled over the fire, steam curling into the night air.
Julie sharpened her sword with slow, careful strokes, her eyes occasionally flicking toward the trail, while Skadi fidgeted, her tail wagging restlessly as she peered into the darkness, her ears twitching for any sign of Cassius and Aisha.
Skadi's voice broke the quiet, her tone impatient as she leaned forward, her hands clasped tightly.
