The creek felt different on this side.

Not darker — just older, like the trees had been standing there long before kids decided which sticks were swords and which rocks were treasure. The canopy stretched high above them, branches knitting together until sunlight filtered through in thin, shifting lines. Every step Craig took made his map itch in his pocket, unfinished lines begging to be drawn.

J.P. pushed through a curtain of leaves, already breathing a little harder than usual. Kelsey marched ahead with her cardboard sword held proudly at her side, eyes sharp and thrilled at the idea of unexplored territory. Omar lingered near the back, bow in hand, movements quiet and deliberate, like he’d slipped back into a role he hadn’t played in a while.

Craig slowed, staff tapping softly against the dirt.

“This definitely isn’t on the map,” he muttered, more to himself than anyone else.

The forest answered with silence.

Then — something shifted.

It wasn’t loud. No snapping branches, no dramatic crash. Just a movement between the trees, quick enough to be missed if you weren’t already looking for it. Craig froze mid-step. Kelsey stopped instantly, her excitement sharpening into focus as she raised her sword.

Omar’s bow was in his hands in a second, arrow already nocked.

“Okay,” J.P. whispered, “tell me I didn’t imagine that.”

Another rustle. Closer this time.

Craig felt that familiar mix of fear and curiosity twist in his chest — the kind that always meant they were about to find something. His grip tightened around his staff as he scanned the shadows, heart thudding just loud enough to make him worry it could give them away.

Whatever was out there moved fast.

Too fast for the wind.

The trees seemed to hold their breath.

And then the undergrowth ahead shifted again — closer, clearer — like whoever or whatever was watching them had decided it was done hiding.

Craig swallowed, eyes locked on the space between the trunks.

“Uh,” he said carefully, “guys… I think we’re not alone anymore.”

The forest stayed silent.

Waiting.