The Drowning Path

Dark clouds hang low over the dense canopy as a relentless downpour begins to soak the forest floor. The traveler moves slowly between the tall, swaying trunks while heavy droplets drum against the leaves. Water streams down their shoulders, quickly darkening the fabric of their clothes.

The traveler steps carefully over slick, moss-covered roots that snake across the path. Mud clings to their heavy boots with every stride through the rising puddles. A cold shiver runs down their spine as the wind pushes the rain against their sodden back.

The path vanishes into the black expanse of a rising river that cuts through the trees. Night settles over the dark water as the traveler wades forward, feeling the cold current press against their waist. Rain ripples the surface around them while the submerged stones shift unsteadily beneath their heavy boots.