The trees grew thicker as they pressed on, their gnarled branches weaving together like a cage. Caleb’s flashlight flickered again, and he gave it a sharp shake, cursing under his breath.


    “You really need better gear,” Evelyn said, her voice flat.


    “Thanks for the advice,” Caleb muttered.


    Evelyn didn’t respond. She kept moving, her flashlight sweeping across the trail ahead.


    As they walked, Caleb couldn’t help but notice the tension in her posture. She was quiet—quieter than usual—and her eyes kept darting to the shadows, like she was waiting for something to jump out at them.


    “You okay?” Caleb asked, his tone softer than before.Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.


    “I’m fine,” Evelyn said automatically.


    “You sure? Because you don’t look fine.”


    Evelyn stopped abruptly, turning to face him. “I said I’m fine,” she said sharply.


    Caleb raised his hands defensively. “Alright, alright. Just asking.”


    Evelyn stared at him for a moment, then sighed, the tension in her shoulders easing slightly. “We’re almost there,” she said, her voice quieter now.


    Caleb didn’t press her. He could tell when to back off, and Evelyn didn’t need him pushing her right now.


    The trail began to slope downward, the forest growing darker and more oppressive. Caleb felt the weight of the silence pressing down on him again, his nerves on edge.


    “You think they’re still following us?” Caleb asked.


    “They’re always following,” Evelyn replied.


    “That’s not creepy at all,” Caleb muttered.


    Evelyn glanced at him briefly, her expression grim. “They don’t give up, Caleb. Not until they get what they want.”


    “And what happens if we get to it first?”


    “They’ll come for us anyway,” Evelyn said simply.


    Caleb sighed, shaking his head. “Fantastic.”