The air was still as we stood near the mouth of the cave. I kept the illusion rune active until I was sure no one was nearby. My students were quiet—too quiet.
"Alright," I murmured, breaking the silence. "We've wasted enough time."
The illusion over the cave flickered as I tapped the rune with my cane, dispersing it. The entrance returned to its normal, rough stone, blending seamlessly with the forest around us.
"Stay close," I said, my voice low. "We're moving out."
No one argued this time. Good.
We stepped into the open, the cool breeze brushing against our faces. The forest felt… different. The tension that had weighed down on us was gone.
Too quiet.
I didn't like it.
"Eyes up." I glanced at Julien and Mira, both of whom immediately fell into position, scanning the surroundings. Garrick took point, his massive frame moving with practiced caution.
Leo was sticking close to Felix, and Wallace was staying near the center of the group, his mana still recovering. Cassandra…
