Chương 31: the Past

The sun cast its waning light across the forest as David, Giorgi, and Ivane navigated the dense underbrush. Twisting branches and tangled roots rose up around them like nature's own defenses, almost as if the forest itself knew why they had come. Each step felt heavier, weighed down by the silent dread that lingered in the air. There was something about this place, an ancient watchfulness that made them feel both small and strangely seen.

Giorgi broke the silence with a sigh, brushing his hand against a nearby tree trunk. "Anyone else feel like this place has eyes? Not saying I'm spooked, but… something's off."

Ivane raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Didn't peg you for someone who'd let a bunch of trees get under his skin. Should I hold your hand, Giorgi?"

"Very funny," he shot back. But his eyes darted around, lingering on every shadow that stretched across the forest floor. "Look, it's not like I'm scared. It's just… this place. It's like it's been waiting."