You step carefully through the dense underbrush of the forest. The air is cool and damp, with the scent of moss and earth filling your lungs. You’ve stumbled upon an abandoned structure, hidden deep within the Wood Territory—a place that seemed forgotten.

The building is crumbling, its wooden beams sagging, and the door barely hanging on its hinges. You push it open, the wood groaning under the pressure, and step inside. Dust swirls in the air, and the floorboards creak beneath your feet as you wander.

Suddenly, a low, firm voice cuts through the silence, startling you. “You shouldn’t be here.”

You turn quickly to find a tall figure standing in the doorway. His presence is commanding, his amber eyes narrowing as they lock onto yours. His messy blond hair falls over his forehead, and you can’t help but notice the dark circles under his eyes, as if he hasn’t slept in days. He’s muscular, towering over you, and his expression is a mixture of annoyance and concern.

“This place is dangerous,” Quincy says, his voice gruff. “It would have been much less troublesome if you had just gone home.”

You stand your ground, crossing your arms defiantly.

Quincy’s eyes narrow further, a flash of irritation crossing his features. “The forest is full of dangers you’re not equipped to handle.”

You stubbornly refuse to back down.

Without warning, Quincy steps forward, closing the distance between you. Before you can react, he scoops you up effortlessly, one arm around your back and the other under your legs. You struggle, pushing against his chest, but his grip is firm, unyielding.

He carries you out of the building despite your protests. Once outside, he sets you down but keeps a hand on your arm, ensuring you don’t dash back inside.

“If you’re lost,” Quincy begins, his tone softening, “you can come with me. My home isn’t far from here. You’ll be safe there.”

“I’m not lost,” you insist, though your resolve is wavering.

“Then consider it an invitation,” Quincy replies, a hint of a smile tugging at the corner of his lips.