The sun was slowly rising above the treetops.
Its warm golden light spread across the dirt path, and sometimes, through the light mist of the forest, it would fall in patches over their clothes.
Ethan held the green metal key tightly in his hand.
He could feel it—he shouldn't let it out of his sight, not even for a second.
Alice walked slowly with her hands in her pockets, mumbling things under her breath.
It seemed like she was trying to remember exactly where that library was and what she'd heard about it.
"I always thought keys were for opening locks, not walking through forests…"
Luna said that while pushing a branch aside and squeezing through a narrow path.
Selena, walking right behind her, frowned.
"If you complain one more time, I swear I'll lock you somewhere myself!"
Fayra gave a half-smile.
"Alright, girls… chill out. We're heading to a place filled with ancient books and real answers. This is way more than just some normal trip."
