—--
As preparations were underway for their departure the following morning, Clandestine quickly pulled Esme aside from the rest of the group, her touch gentle but urgent.
"I may not know the true reason that brought you here," she said in a low voice, "but it's clear things didn't unfold the way you planned. Judging from the condition I found you all in yesterday, it's quite obvious something went wrong. For your safety, steer clear of the main road for now. The palace has reduced its patrols in the green area. Guards are reluctant to venture too far because of the increasing sightings of demon wolves. Since the sun is already out, you and your friends can take that route. It's safe during this time of the day."
