Nora's POV
The air around me stills completely, and I realize with growing unease that the forest has fallen silent. No rustling leaves dancing in the wind. No insects chirping their evening songs. Nothing but absolute quiet.
"Who are you?" I demand, raising my palm. Brilliant blue energy spirals around my fingers, blazing so intensely it makes me squint. I lower my hand quickly, blinking hard as spots dance across my vision.
The mysterious blue-eyed man has vanished, but deep within the trees, an ominous orange-red light begins to glow. The breeze returns suddenly, carrying with it the distinct smell of burning wood. Except no campers are enjoying a cozy fire out here in these woods.
The acrid scent of sulfur doesn't register immediately, but something deep inside me recognizes it. This isn't ordinary fire I'm smelling. This is hellfire, and every instinct tells me I'm about to become its next victim. I squeeze my eyes shut.
"Wake up, Nora," I command myself.
