A TAIL ON OUR BACK

{ "May you have the vision to find it, the courage to get on to it, and the perseverance to follow it." }

We moved quietly, but even so, it prickled along the back of my neck, the ancient, animal knowing that we were no longer alone.

I slowed my steps, holding out a hand to stop Qadira. She froze immediately, her body tense, her hand drifting instinctively to the dagger at her belt.

"We're being followed," I whispered, barely moving my lips.

Qadira glanced over her shoulder, her eyes scanning the fog and shadow. "Are you sure?" she breathed, though her hand stayed on her weapon.

"Positive." I shifted my stance, listening. The forest had gone too quiet—the kind of silence that meant something was hunting or waiting.