Kael almost fell as he moved ahead, his feet sinking into the soft earth of the Whispering Woods. The silver-black lines of the portal turned in, disappearing without a trace. No echoes of battle. No companions at his side. Only the rustle of the leaves at a great distance and the warmth pressing in his chest, Zhal, inside, as close as his own heartbeat.
He stood still with his hand against his sternum. The brand smoldered slightly, reminding of the blood and shadow deal. The voice of Zhal was slithering into his head, low and mocking.
"Well, are you ready to go back to…"
"Sheesh, quiet," Kael cut in.
Glancing around. The forest was deserted, but he felt paranoid.
"Three fucking days", he said groggily. "gone for three whole days without a word, professors are going to skin me alive"
