The slope narrowed, and the forest seemed to swallow everything—twisted trunks leaned over the path, long, damp branches hung like claws ready to capture anyone who dared to advance.
Sylphie continued ahead, breathing heavily, her eyes intent on every movement of the trees. Her mana pulsed like a racing heart.
But something was wrong.
The forest was attacking her.
Branches snapped suddenly, vines moved on their own, and roots rose from the ground, trying to snare her ankles. The air was too dense, saturated with energy—so much so that every breath burned her lungs.
Amelia cut a vine that nearly wrapped around her leg and swore loudly,
"This isn't natural!" she screamed, jumping back as the ground gave way beneath her feet.
Sylphie turned and raised her hands, making a circle with her fingers. A wave of green mana spread around them, forming a temporary barrier.
"I know!" she replied, her eyes shining. "But the forest shouldn't react like this. It's... panicking."
