Shilo and Caleb met Lux on the other side, the opening already beginning to close up. They had to move fast but their journey was still an uphill battle. Literally. It almost felt like they were climbing a mountain. It wasn’t long before their journey came to an end. When they reached the top of the cliff they were apparently climbing, Lux immediately crouched down behind a large, black rock, but the other two were still standing. He quickly grabbed Shilo’s hand and dragged her to his level.

“Get down, both of you,” he whispered urgently. “Look down there. I see a carriage.”

Shilo got comfortable, peeking over the rock. The forest reached a clearing below them, a path fit for carriages and other transportation to freely pass. Beyond the road was a small cabin with nothing but a front door and two men posted in front. Shilo scoffed, not convinced that this tiny shack was where The Council would be staying.

“Lux, this is worse than our inn. They’re not staying here.”

“Be quiet,” Caleb whispered back sternly. “They’ll hear you.” Shilo wasn’t at all surprised by how serious Caleb was. He took protecting her way too seriously. But something about his eyes told her that maybe… This was The Council.

The carriage came to a stop, one man guarding the door coming to open the carriage. And sure enough the witch of Scarlet Valley stepped out in all her glory. Shilo felt her heart suddenly rise to her throat, seeing her idol for the first time in years. Her rich brown hair curled so perfectly down her back, like a cascade of autumn leaves. Several streaks of red tinged her hair, giving Sonya her signature look.

“Wow it’s Sonya…” The words just fell out of her mouth without even thinking. Caleb quickly placed a hand over her mouth, keeping an eye on the witch below. It didn’t seem like she noticed. One of the guards were speaking to her, motioning for her to follow him. There was still another occupant inside the carriage of course. And soon he too came to view. His cold blue eyes were able to be seen a mile away. Willabus Foster. Shilo muttered his name under Caleb’s hand, starstruck by the dashing sorcerer before her. Despite being from such a harsh climate, he always seemed so regal with his movements. Even stepping out of the carriage was fluid and effortless.

The Council in all its glory.

The door swung open, both guards bowing and allowing The Council to enter. Willabus gestured for Sonya to enter first. As she walked toward the door, her eyes flashed behind her. Up.

Towards the little onlookers.

Caleb bit his lip pulled Shilo to the ground, covering her as he waited. She tried to push him off but Caleb was far too heavy. Lux had already followed suit and got down into the dirt, remaining silent. After a few moments, Caleb heard the door close. That was their change to leave. He helped Shilo to her feet and began to run towards the barrier opening, not even waiting for Lux.

If they were seen they were dead.