GODS HELP US ALL

The air between the trees was flowing it such a way it made the leaves dance ever so subtly, but nothing more than that, as though afraid to break the tension, every breath seeming to carry the weight of the standoff. 

Marek's expression hardened as he forced his shoulders back, regaining his composure despite the chaos swirling around him. He reached up, pulling down the high collar of his cloak with deliberate precision. Beneath, etched into his skin, was a mark that burned bright red in the dim light.

Aric paused, his casual stride halting as his gaze zeroed in on the mark. For the first time since the confrontation began, his expression shifted from disinterest to genuine intrigue. His lips curved into a half-smile, but his eyes gleamed with something sharper, something dangerous.