Chapter 36

Rayne's POV

The loud silence nearly deafened me. Save for the sounds of my foot trampling leaves underfoot, I couldn't hear much. The eerie atmosphere sent shivers up my spine, eliciting goosebumps along my skin.

I hadn't noticed the light chill in the air that evening earlier, but now that there was no longer a large roaring fire to keep me warm, the chill no longer had any barriers. Nevertheless, I had a job to do, and I wouldn't leave until I at least found that boy's sister.

I sniffed the air, not quite sure what to expect. Tinges of grass, wet earth, and leaves permeated my senses, and somehow they beckoned me closer, like invisible fingers pointing me to the way. I followed them, still cautious, but knowing that since I had taken the initial risk, I couldn't turn around and give up now.

The path I followed took me further into the quiet woods with every step I took. Occasionally I would hear a sound afar off, like someone shouting or loud thudding, but it never came close enough