The cold

The cold, oppressive air hung heavy as we made our way deeper into the forest. The trees, once vibrant and full of life, were now twisted, their bark blackened as if scorched from within. Shadows danced unnaturally along the ground, flickering like living things. It was as if the very land itself was being consumed by the darkness that had taken root in this place.

I could feel the crystal's pull intensifying with each step, its rhythmic pulse in tune with my own heartbeat. Every now and then, I'd glance over my shoulder and catch sight of the shadowy figures that followed us from a distance. They weren't attacking, not yet, but their presence was unnerving. Leif walked beside me, his expression tight with concern, while Raven kept a watchful eye on the shadows. Zara, as always, remained focused, though her eyes frequently flicked toward me, as if trying to gauge how much of me was still there.