They were no longer in the forest.
They were standing in the center of a ruined clearing, surrounded by withered trees that groaned with every gust of wind.
And before him—almost like a stage being unveiled—figures began to emerge.
Their unnaturally dark cloaks stood out like a sore thumb, and Liam's eyes locked on them in annoyance.
One by one, they appeared. Shadowy silhouettes wrapped in heavy robes, their faces hidden beneath deep hoods.
There were five of them at first, but more began to gather from the shadows, their very presence seeming to make the air colder, heavier.
A foul energy rolled off them in waves, so thick and noxious it made the earth pulse with unease.
Liam's muscles tensed.
"Heretics," He muttered, his voice low, thick with disdain.
Jaegel stumbled beside him, his eyes wide as his knees gave out. "N-No… no… It can't be…"
But Liam barely heard him.
