Missing

Once August and Sage approached the tree with its exposed roots where August had fallen, Sage's footsteps quickened and he pulled her into a shallow cave under the tree. August caught his panicked expression, and he met her eyes, pressing a finger in front of his lips.

His eyes closed in concentration, and August peered out from the dark cave as leaves crunched under someone's feet above. The sound of footfalls ceased, and she found herself holding her breath in anticipation. Sage's eyebrows were threaded together as he gripped her hand tighter.

It seemed like some kind of barrier was created to cover the cave opening, because the Veiled dimmed on the other side. She looked at the boy in surprise. Was he doing that? That would mean… Sage was alyko?

Suddenly a figure dropped into the mud in front of them. August recognized that silhouette. It belonged to Lucas.