The forest was deathly silent as Ryuto, Nina, Celeste, and the rest of the group moved deeper into the heart of the woods. Malachai led them swiftly, his cloak billowing behind him as the path narrowed and the trees grew darker and more twisted. The air was thick with anticipation, the weight of the impending confrontation hanging heavily over them all. They were approaching the place where Vikar's final ritual was to take place, and every step brought them closer to uncovering the truth behind Malachai's motives, and the dark plan that had been in motion for far too long.
Ryuto's heart pounded in his chest, his senses on high alert as the group pressed forward. He stole a glance at Malachai, whose face remained grim and focused. The man had been a mystery from the start, and despite his warnings about Vikar, there was still a part of Ryuto that didn't fully trust him.
But now wasn't the time for doubts. They had to stop Vikar, no matter what.