Chapter 86: Into the Woods

The forest loomed ahead, its dense canopy swallowing the fading light of dusk. Shadows stretched across the trail, their shifting forms playing tricks on the eye. George led the group, his glowing blade casting a faint, warm light around them. The air was heavy, filled with the faint scent of damp earth and decay. Every rustle of leaves or snap of a branch set their nerves on edge.

Akari walked close to George, her hands glowing faintly with protective magic. "This forest feels… wrong," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's like the air itself is alive."

Stephanie, walking a few steps behind, snorted. "It's not alive, it's just full of things waiting to kill us. Keep your head on a swivel."

Raven's katana gleamed in the faint light as she scanned their surroundings. "Stay sharp. Vampires don't need to make noise to hunt. They'll be watching us long before we see them."