Chapter 178: Does this battles never end

The trek continues, each day a test of their resilience. The initial thrill of victory over the monstrous bear had faded,replaced by the dull ache of unhealed wounds and the ever-present gnawing of hunger. The landscape remained largely unchanged, a dense tapestry of emerald green undergrowth punctuated by towering trees that seemed to pierce the very heavens. One afternoon, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long, ominous shadows across their path, they stumbled upon a clearing. In the center, nestled amongst vibrant wildflowers, stood a cluster of quaint cottages. Smoke curled from their chimneys, promising warmth and respite. Relief washed over them, a powerful lure after days of hardship. "Perhaps we can find shelter here for the night," Gareth rasped, his voice hoarse from exhaustion. "A hot meal and a bed wouldn't go amiss." Lucian, his gaze drawn to the inviting glow emanating from the windows, hesitated. Something about the idyllic scene felt…off. But the pull of c