Morning returned to Greenwood Forest slowly.
The dawn light crept through the ancient canopy like liquid gold, spilling across the massive platforms of the elven village and illuminating drifting streams of mist that curled around the towering trees.
Normally the village would already be alive with activity.
Hunters leaving the gates.
Scouts returning from night patrol.
Children running across the rope bridges.
But today, things were quieter.
Because something had changed.
The elves couldn't quite explain it.
But they could feel it.
Mana across the forest had grown heavier.
Denser.
Stronger.
Commander Aerion stood once again on the eastern observation platform, his silver cloak stirring gently in the morning wind.
His eyes scanned the forest below.
Beside him stood two scouts.
One of them finally spoke.
"…Commander."
Aerion didn't turn.
"Yes?"
"Have you noticed it?"
Aerion nodded slowly.
"The mana pressure."
The second scout frowned.
"It started last night."
