44. Hooves of Wind

He tilted his head in her direction, his expression grim, “Positive,” Emric replied, his tone leaving no space for argument. “The terrain might be rough, but we’ll need the speed if things go south.” With their supplies loaded into the back of the jeep, Jayden and Swan climbed inside, the weight of their mission settling heavily on their shoulders. As the engine roared to life, Jinx called after them, her voice sharp with urgency. “Remember—Naag is dangerous, but the Sleet Kingdom itself will test you in ways you can’t imagine. Stay sharp, stay alive, and for the love of everything, don’t let the poison win.” They were only a few miles away from the sanatorium when Swan’s instincts flared, an unsettling awareness creeping over her. She tapped Emric on the shoulder. “Stop the jeep,” she said, her voice low but commanding. Without hesitation, Emric pulled to a halt, and Swan leapt out, followed closely by Jayden and Emric. “We’re being followed,” Swan said, scanning the dark forest aroun