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A narrow but well-trodden road ran along the very edge of the forest. On the other hand, huge meadows with lush, bright green grass approached it. Here and there, a strip of a narrow, fast-moving river shone, emerging from the lush greenery. A light warm breeze swayed bright meadow flowers, from which a charming aroma emanated. Furry bees buzzed, multi-colored butterflies fluttered, and the only thing missing here was grazing herds of domestic cattle, and nowhere was there even a hint of the presence of human habitation.

Untouched nature, silence, tranquility. Only the road stood out from the general impression of the complete absence of human activity. But as soon as you turn your head in the other direction, look at the forest, and immediately there is a desire to put the horse into a gallop and rush away from this celebration of wild nature.

Only a few rows of trees seemed normal, alive, but even their trunks were serpentine cracks, and reddish veins glistened on the leaves. And th