The same wolves, the same suffocating presence, and the same cozy, humble cottage greeted Misa as Royle’s stallion galloped through the gates. She tightened her arms around his waist, burying her face into his back. It somehow made it easier to breathe.
Tika’s magic pulsated in the air. It was erratic, irregular, as if it was vacillating between exploding and remaining contained. It unsettled Misa, and she was tempted to ask Royle if they could forget about the trip and return to Giligha. But, the evening had deepened, and darkness threatened to swallow them. So, Misa had no choice but to slip off the horse and stay the night at the witch’s home.
“Go inside first,” Royle said. “I’ll meet you there once I’ve got Battalion settled.”
May I come with you? Misa thought, but s
