The journey stretched on for the rest of the day. They crossed the vast forest, carefully watching their surroundings in case of an emergency. No one knew if another ash Wendigo might be lurking nearby, eager to kill. The best course of action was to stay alert and keep a close eye on the path. Just in case, everyone kept their weapons in hand.
The towering trees seemed to grow less ominous the farther they went, but that didn't erase the decaying atmosphere the entire kingdom imposed on adventurers. The air was heavy, filled with a mysterious energy—the Ashen Curse.
"Don't split up. The curse is heavily concentrated in this area," Monar said. "If the shields fail, we'll be turned into statues. Watch your step."
The group nodded. No one wanted to become a sorrowful specter doomed to wander the kingdom for eternity. So they avoided every dark patch where danger might be greater.
