The sun, a benevolent eye peering through the dense canopy, cast long, shifting patterns of light and shadow upon the grey asphalt path. Two figures on bicycles, their backs to the viewer, propelled themselves deeper into the verdant embrace of the woods. The air hung still and warm, alive with the gentle rustle of leaves and the quiet whir of spinning wheels. The emerald green of the forest walls seemed to watch them pass, silent witnesses to their journey.