''Are you sure you'll be fine?''
''Don't worry.'' Seyraphal’s smile was awkward, strained by the bandage across her face. ''Before I got stuck here, I learned to sneak and disguise myself in settlements to trade for supplies. I know the way back well enough.''
''Then...'' You gently patted her head, careful not to disturb the bandage. ''...don’t think for a moment I see you as a liability.''
''It’s okay, Rey.'' A thin, mutated arm emerged from her cloak, three elongated fingers brushing your arm. ''Watch out for the bullwoman, she’s got a hell of a temper.''
''The last few days after that brawl must have hit the village hard,'' Shigeko said, her gaze flicking between the road’s entrance and you. ''We should scout the situation before you show yourself. We’re only here to fetch the doctor, anyway.''

Stepping away from her friends, Seyraphal turned and left your company for the day.

It took nearly an hour to spot signs of your destination in western Eichenwald. Militiamen and mercenaries patrolled in growing numbers, while trade was confined to houses or storerooms. Locals gathered at wells, eyeing Shigeko suspiciously as you passed. Your pointed ears and weapons deterred any trouble, but you and Shigeko steered clear of men without the cream-colored tabard of the lightning ram to avoid provoking incidents.
During the journey, you couldn’t stop watching your companion. Familiar with the path, Shigeko led the way to the village’s other entrance. Her tall, strong frame, draped in a fur-lined cloak, radiated a quiet elegance and danger.
She’s been reserved and quiet all day, even a bit cold. I’m not sure she’d welcome small talk... but her presence feels comforting all the same.
''Eastern entrance,'' your companion abruptly remarked, just as you nearly bumped into her.

As you veered onto one of Eichenwald’s tidy roads, a clear divide appeared between the nearby houses and the secluded Mamono village. A tall palisade -built to contain rather than protect- curved in a low circle, its extent hidden by surrounding buildings. Though not a full district, the enclosure could house a few hundred souls, judging by its size and the few rooftops rising above it. The lack of onlookers set you on edge, especially as you and Shigeko stood out sharply on the quiet street.
''They don’t look friendly,'' you said, keeping your expression neutral.

A gatehouse blocked your path, with a few men lounging on its wooden battlement. Their voices didn’t match the three heads you saw; more were likely hidden behind the structure.
''Better than the alternative,'' Shigeko replied, her tone steady. ''The main road would’ve taken us past the mercenaries’ headquarters. That felt like a bad idea.''
''Thanks for that. Let’s hope these guys play nice.''
You approached the gate, hoping someone would check the visor or open it. No luck. ''Hey, up there!'' you called. ''Two people need entry to the Mamono village!''