Not so fast

Ethan frowned when he heard footsteps in just a few minutes. He expected his demons to take their time but it looked like danger was lurking around right in the corner. Ethan immediately stood up and patted Lia to become alert as well. 

The two of them hid near a big boulder as they waited for the approaching figure to emerge from the mine's dimly lit entrance. Ethan's breath slowed as he pressed himself against the cold stone, every muscle coiled like a spring. This was too fast. If his demons had encountered an enemy already, then the danger was far closer than he had anticipated.

Lia stirred beside him, shaking off her exhaustion as she gripped her staff tightly. Her eyes met his, sharp and questioning, but Ethan simply gestured for her to stay silent. They would see soon enough whether this was friend or foe.