Echoes in the Woods

Lyra's POV

The woods were dense and shadows were casting by the towering trees, almost as if they were trying to grab hold of me. But I didn't care. I kept moving forward. Adrian's mocking words still lingered in my mind, a reminder of the ticking clock I was racing against. He wouldn't wait long before making his move.

He knows I can't escape him. That's why he didn't stop me. He's toying with me.

The thought made my blood run cold. I couldn't let fear paralyze me now. I had to act fast.

The link between me and Kael was faint, like trying to grasp smoke in my hands. I reached out again, pouring all my energy into the bond that tied us together.

Kael… Please, hear me…

Silence.

I gritted my teeth, frustration bubbling inside me. Why wasn't it working? He should feel it. He had to.

A new thought hit me like a bolt of lightning. Kellan.