"This isn't outside the forest," she said slowly. "We are in a different place."
Mirek turned toward her. "A different place?"
"Yes," she replied. "The surroundings contrast with the forest's and there has to be a reason why we are here."
As if responding to her words, the mist stirred.
Not blown by wind, but drawn inward, swirling slowly in a wide arc ahead of them. Shapes began to emerge. Tall, indistinct silhouettes that flickered in and out of clarity, as though the place itself could not decide what form it wanted to take.
Lavayla felt a prickle crawl up her spine.
"Mirek," she said softly, "do you think this is connected to the Serpent infected with the chaotic energy?"
He stepped closer, positioning himself slightly in front of her again, his body tense but controlled. "I'm not sure but stay behind me."
She did not argue.
