A dark forest stretches out before them; storm clouds bubbled above it. Julius watches the outskirts of the clearing, checking behind them for their pursuers. Callista and Jacob are right behind him. He wonders what Callista sees. He knew that magic is used to keep the wall up between the mortal realm and the supernatural realm. The forest is still, besides the storm raging above it. He couldn't see where the guards were station, and if that's because they weren't on the side of the supernatural. Finally, a soft pulse of light enters the field, making Julius wince. Jacob gave a soft curse.
"Did that come from the forest or the storm?" Callista asks, her voice thick with sleep. Julius resisted the urge to look at her, to see her. The last day was hell, ignoring her and keeping his distance. He still heard Jacob making small talk, asking about her life. Julius felt like snapping the last twenty-four hours.