The eagles' piercing cries rang out, growing sharper as they shattered the calm of the verdant Huntbel Forest.
It was a warning of danger drawing near.
Emily hurried to Clara's side as the knightess stumbled, her crutch slipping from her grasp and clattering to the ground.
"Are you all right?" she asked, as she helped Clara back onto her feet, steadying her.
Clara grunted, the strain evident in the tension of her body. Emily could feel the pain coursing through her.
"Lean on me," she urged, pulling the knightess's arm over her shoulder as they tried to move.
"Quick! The danger is—"
'Thud!'
Clara's words cut off abruptly as heavy footsteps landed before them.
A broad shadow fell across the ground, looming over the two women. They froze, startled by the sudden presence.
In that instant, it became clear—their efforts to remain hidden had failed.
