The rhythmic clip-clop of hooves echoed softly through the dense forest, muffled slightly by the fresh layer of leaves that blanketed the trail. The black mare beneath you trotted steadily, occasionally letting out a low nicker that was swallowed by the trees.

It wasn’t every day the Scouts had a break, and it was even rarer for Levi to plan something so…out of the ordinary.

You shifted slightly in the saddle, your green hood tugged low over your eyes, obstructing your view. You had tried peeking once—just once—only for Levi to immediately click his tongue and tug the fabric back down.

“No peeking,” he grumbled. “Don’t ruin the damn surprise.”

You huffed quietly but didn’t argue.

After what felt like forever, the horse finally slowed to a stop at the edge of a clearing, where a small wooden cabin sat nestled among tall trees.

Levi dismounted first, landing softly on the grass. He took a few steps forward, one hand steadying the reins of his black mare, then glanced back over his shoulder at you.

“…Alright,” he muttered. “You can look now.”