The forest slowly swallowed them, the darkness between the trees cut only by the runes floating around the group. Kael walked ahead, his heavy steps breaking roots and dry leaves, while Exelia followed close behind, her rapier dangling from her hand, reflecting the greenish glow of nocturnal insects. The other witches followed silently, spread out in formation, but always keeping a distance—as if the mere weight of Kael and Exelia's presence was enough to drive them away.
The sound of the wind through the tall canopies seemed like a subdued whisper, and for a while no one dared speak. Until Kael, with that lazy tone that hid barbs of command, broke the silence:
"Exelia…" he said, without turning his head, his red eyes fixed on the dark path ahead. "How is my grandmother?"
Exelia adjusted her grip on her rapier and replied after a brief moment, her voice calm but firm:
