Jubilation

"Lord Rowan still hasn't returned."

At the southern border of Winterseed, a group of soldiers stood guard, discussing among themselves.

"He will be back soon, I'm sure of it, and he will definitely return victorious!" another soldier responded to his worried comrade.

"The journey to Glenwood takes at least two days. We should expect their return starting tomorrow," added another.

As they continued their conversation, they suddenly heard the sound of footsteps approaching.

They immediately took battle positions, their hands gripping the hilts of their swords as they scanned the dim path ahead. The forest around them seemed to hold its breath as the crunch of leaves underfoot grew louder, closer. Each man tensed, the weight of anticipation heavy in the air.

Through the darkness, they saw the figure of a man approaching.

"Who goes there?" they called out, squinting their eyes as the figure continued toward them.