The outskirts of the city were eerily silent, with the crystalline forest stretching out in all directions like an alien landscape. Shards of crystalized flora reflected the faint light of the sky, casting an ethereal glow over the frozen forest floor.
Thane stopped abruptly, his sharp eyes were scanning their surroundings one last time. Satisfied that they were alone, he exhaled slowly, letting the tension in his shoulders to eased slightly.
"Looks like we're clear for now."
Behind him, the massive shadow that had been following him began to shift. Kali, in her dragon form, loomed tall above the crystalline trees, with her scales shimmering faintly in the light.
