The air outside the cave was colder than before. The mist hadn't lifted, it only thickened, curling like smoke between the trees, clinging to bark and stone like a living thing. The forest felt narrower somehow, tighter than it had earlier. Whether it was the growing dark or the curse in the land itself, Ludwig wasn't sure. He only knew the change felt... intentional.
The Vampire Hunter walked ahead, his steps brisk and sharp, but not loud. He knew how to move through this terrain, his footing was sure, confident even, but there was something coiled beneath it. Something bitter and festering. Anger, perhaps. Or guilt.
Beal followed at Ludwig's side, his posture tense. He kept glancing at their guide like one might eye a snake that hadn't yet chosen to strike.
"If he tries anything," Beal muttered under his breath, "I want you to give me two seconds. I'll carve him from neck to groin."
