Chapter 44: The search (5)

The guards moved swiftly, their movements barely disturbing the serene silence of the elven forest. The canopy above filtered the sunlight into a dappled dance of golden hues across the forest floor. They navigated through dense tress, past vines that shimmered faintly with enchantments and beneath towering trees whose roots twisted and coiled like serpents.

Their mission was clear: to find Edward Everstride.

After some time, they reached a clearing where the forest's oldest oak tree stood, its massive branches spreading wide like the arms of a guardian. Atop one of its highest branches, Edward sat with his back against the rough bark, one leg dangling lazily.

His sharp green eyes scanned the horizon, the wind tousling his silver hair as it whispered through the leaves. His bow, intricately carved with runes that glowed faintly when touched by light, lay beside him.

"Edward!" one of the guards called up, his voice steady but urgent.