Ren and the others expected to head straight into the forest, but they stopped short when the heavy gates opened again.
From the shadow of the wooden walls, Shurna emerged with her group of hunters. Her tall figure stood proud despite the white bandage wrapped around her arm. The morning sun shimmered on her bronze armor and the silver edge of her spear.
Orakh's posture changed instantly. His back straightened, chest puffed out, and his muscles flexed under his armor. He stepped aside to give her path, his expression serious yet awkward—like a peacock trying to impress a ladybird.
Draki, however, smirked when he spotted the bandage. "Are you going to hunt with an injured arm, sister?"
The point of Shurna's spear slammed into the dirt with a thud. Her tone remained calm, her expression emotionless. "Drought doesn't wait for anyone, brother. Not for rain… not for food… and certainly not for an injured arm."
