The path between the elf houses stretched before them, dimly lit by lanterns swaying gently in the night breeze. Most windows were dark, a few still flickering with fading warmth. The usual hum of voices, laughter, and music from the celebration had vanished entirely. Even the scattered elves they passed moved quietly, preoccupied, as if avoiding notice.
Matt and Paulo, now under Zave and Alex's watchful eyes, shuffled along, unaware of the subtle shift in the atmosphere. Zave kept a steady pace, his gaze sweeping the surroundings, alert to every shadow, every movement. Alex's shoulders stiffened slightly, the slightest twitch of his ears signaling unease. He moved closer to Zave's side, his steps quickening as his eyes narrowed, silently scanning the empty streets ahead.
