{ "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.
The Mira magic inside me stirred, sharpening my senses even more. I could feel it now: footsteps muffled carefully, someone moving when we moved, pausing when we paused. Keeping just enough distance to stay unseen... but close enough to strike if they chose.
