THE FOOTPRINTS. Journey of no return.

CHAPTER 51: Famine in the paths.

As Ethan journeyed further from Crestwood, the road became increasingly rugged, winding its way through dense forests and rocky terrain. With each passing mile, his supplies dwindled—a loaf of bread here, a flask of water there, until finally, he found himself running short of provisions.

His throat parched and his stomach growling, Ethan pressed on, his determination driving him forward even as fatigue threatened to drag him down. But as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the road, he realized that he could go no further without replenishing his supplies.

With a heavy heart, Ethan scanned the horizon for any sign of shelter—a farmhouse, perhaps, or a traveler's inn where he might find respite from the road. And then, just as despair threatened to overtake him, he spotted a flicker of light in the distance—a lone cottage nestled amidst the trees, its windows glowing warmly in the gathering darkness.

Summoning what little strength remained within him, Ethan q