Into the Lion's Den

The dense forest closed in around Alaric and his team as they neared Valerian's stronghold. The night air was thick with tension, the silence broken only by the soft rustle of leaves and the distant hoot of an owl. Every shadow seemed to move, and every sound set their nerves on edge.

Alaric led the way, his senses heightened. He gestured for the team to halt as they reached the perimeter of the enemy's camp. "We need to split up," he whispered. "Thalia, take the left flank with your scouts. Damien, cover the right. Adrian and I will move straight ahead. We'll regroup at the central tower."

The group nodded and moved into position. Thalia's lithe form disappeared into the shadows, followed by her scouts. Damien and his team crept silently to the right, their eyes sharp and weapons ready.

Alaric turned to Adrian, his expression serious. "Stay close and keep your guard up. We don't know what we're walking into."