The forest seemed to stretch endlessly around them, a labyrinth of shadows and sounds that kept Lyra's heart in a constant state of tension. The air was thick with the scent of pine and earth, but beneath it lingered something darker, something predatory. Every rustle of leaves, every crack of a twig sent her pulse racing as if the forest itself were stalking them.
Kael's grip on her hand was firm but gentle, his pace quick as he led her deeper into the woods. His eyes were sharp, scanning the trees around them, his jaw tight with concentration. The further they went, the more determined he seemed to become. But there was something else in his expression—something Lyra couldn't quite place. Was it fear? Or was it something more?
