We didn't get far.
The forest pressed in around us, the mist thickening with every step.
"Something's wrong," Mira murmured, her dagger already in her hand.
"Tell me something I don't know," Julien muttered, his grip tight on his sword.
Felix was helping Wallace, who looked like he was about to pass out.
Leo…
Damn it.
He was walking, but his eyes were still distant. Whatever had latched onto him wasn't gone.
"Eyes open," I murmured, keeping my cane ready.
The mist was too thick.
Too quiet.
"Professor," Mira's voice was low. "We're being followed."
I didn't ask how she knew.
I felt it too.
"Positions," I murmured.
Julien shifted beside me, Mira took the flank, and Felix stayed with Wallace and Leo.
"Felix," I murmured. "If things go south—"
"I know," Felix muttered, his usual whiny tone gone. "I'll get them out."
Good.
I turned my focus back to the mist.
They were close.
The pulse of mana was faint but growing stronger.
