50. The Wolf's Lair

As much as Shandra mentally repeated to herself that the fatigue was temporary, and that at the end of the trip, she would feel better and refreshed, her body did not think so.

Besides the fact that they were taking minimal breaks along the way because of the days-long delay that visiting Dew caused in their plans, Shandra learned the hard way that she didn't do well with roots, bushes, and undergrowth in general.

When she stumbled for the fourth time that afternoon, the young woman couldn't help but growl in frustration.

Looking amused, Julian winked at her:

"I think you're spending too much time with us, human."

"How much longer until we get there? We've been walking for almost two days now."

"We will get there in an hour or so," Sam reassured. "I know you are tired, but when we get there, I will see to it that you are as comfortable as possible."

Gasping, the young woman stops for a few seconds to catch her breath, then rejoins the two demons.

"This Marcus...," mutters Shandra. "Ho