Evie, Amara, and their friends set out early the next morning, the sun just beginning to rise over the horizon. They traveled by foot, the path leading them through dense forests and over rolling hills. The air was filled with the scent of pine and the songs of early morning birds.

As they walked, Evie couldn’t help but feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness. She clutched the letter from the queen tightly, its weight a constant reminder of the mission ahead. Amara walked beside her, chatting animatedly about the adventure and what they might encounter.

After several hours, the group reached the edge of a vast meadow. In the distance, they could see a towering mountain range, the peaks covered in snow even in the summer. According to the letter, this was their first destination.

“We’ll need to find a guide,” Evie said, looking at the map. “The letter mentions someone in the village at the base of the mountains who can help us.”

The group continued on, reaching the small village by late afternoon. It was a quaint place, with cobblestone streets and thatched-roof cottages. The villagers greeted them warmly, and after asking around, they were directed to an elderly man named Alaric, who was known for his knowledge of the mountains.

“You must be the group the queen sent,” Alaric said, his eyes twinkling with curiosity. “I’ve been expecting you. Come, we have much to discuss.”

He led them to his cottage, where they gathered around a large wooden table. Alaric spread out an ancient map, detailing the treacherous paths and hidden dangers of the mountains.

“You’ll need to follow this route,” he explained, tracing a path with his finger. “It’s the safest, but still, you must be cautious. There are creatures in those mountains that have not been seen for centuries.”

As the sun set, casting a golden glow over the village, Evie felt a renewed sense of determination. The journey ahead would be difficult, but with her friends by her side, she felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.