Underneath the towering oak trees, Zeroi stood with a group of skilled rangers he had hired to escort Alatricia and himself to The Red Woods. He watched as they eyed the treetops, their bows slung over their shoulders like second skins. Their eyes were sharp, and their movements precise – just the kind of protection they needed on this journey.
As they ventured deeper into the woods, there was a palpable tension in the air. The rangers moved with stealth, their keen senses alert for any danger that might be lurking. The forest was alive with the sounds of wildlife, yet it felt as if something more sinister was watching them from the shadows.
Suddenly, a rustling caught their attention, and a group of red-clad bandits emerged from the underbrush. Their leader, a tall man with a piercing gave, addressed Alatricia directly, ignoring Zeroi and the rangers. "You must come with us alone, princess. The others must turn back here."
Alatricia's eyes narrowed, and she exchanged a quick glance with Zeroi. The rangers tensed, ready for a fight at a moment's notice. For several tense minutes, negotiations ensued between the two parties. Despite the danger, Alatricia remained steadfast in her determination to meet with Reydal.
"Fine," Alatricia finally relented. "Take me to him. I’ll see Reydal one on one."
"Are you mad?" Zeroi hissed at Alatricia as the bandits began to bind their hands and cover their eyes. "This is insanity! You’re walking straight into their trap!"
"Trust me, Zeroi," Alatricia whispered, her voice firm despite the uncertainty looming over them. "I need to do this. Just follow my lead."
With a resigned sigh, Zeroi watched the princess allow herself to be led by the bandits, his thoughts racing with worry and doubt. The fate of their mission now rested on Alatricia's shoulders, and he could only hope that her instincts would prove true. As they disappeared into the depths of The Red Woods, the future seemed more uncertain than ever.