Erik couldn't help but feel vulnerable after handing over his Flyssa and backpack. As an added precaution, he was led away from the cave entrance with his hands tightly bound. While suspicious and guarded, the group had not been overly rough, but they had also left no doubt about their ability to defend themselves.
The walk to the village had been an hour of hushed whispers and the crunch of leaves underfoot. Erik, closely flanked by two men with spears and surrounded by others, walked silently. His mind had raced with thoughts, looking for potential escape routes and considering his options, but curiosity surged within him as he thought about the words the woman said.
Was she hiding something? That was clear, but what could that be? Was it something related to their abnormally high strength? Occasionally, he glanced at the woman leading them, but she never met his gaze.