Fifteen figures moved in tight formation, their steps deliberate and cautious.
A squad of town guards, joined by a handful of rank E adventurers, followed closely by two more experienced rank D fighters at the tail.
Their boots crunched over the packed dirt as they passed through the outer gate, tension thick in the air.
On the walls, guards gripped their bows, eyes fixed on the distant treeline where darkness lurked.
"All units, steady," the squad leader commanded, raising his shield and drawing his sword in one smooth motion.
Without hesitation, the others followed—blades, staves, and bows raised, readiness etched into every movement.
The atmosphere was taut. The recruits whispered incantations quietly, the veteran adventurers adjusting their grips and scanning the woods.
No one spoke aloud, but everyone felt the rising fear. Eyes darted nervously. Hands tightened around weapons.
"...What do we do if it's a demon?" someone mumbled skeptically.
