Seven Stones: Part Ninety-Five
Previously on Seven Stones: Destroying the Belt heals some of Serth’s wounds, leaving her battered yet able to survive the journey back to the Stones. Kobb confirms that all of the Stones have lost their odd sense of otherness. However, just after he tells the others, the smell of burning fills the tent.
Kobb shivered, then drew his weapons and sprinted out, Anessa on his heels. Everything seemed dull. He staggered to a halt, gaze sweeping the area as he sought the fire without success. The scent of scorching came from all around, but was strongest behind him.
The barrier seemed more obvious. Two feet later, he realised smoke rose where it touched the ground. He held up a hand. “Stay back. Just in case.”
Power pressed down on him as he opened his mind to the connection. The edge seemed to be in the same place, yet felt heavier. He eased closer, a step at a time. Not heavier exactly: more — He halted, as crackle of light moved around the edge.
The flicker afforded him too brief a glimpse to be certain, but the ground had seemed eaten away. If the barrier had started to damage the soil, getting closer was risky. Especially if it arced out again. Safest option was to dismiss it. They’d realigned the Stones, so did they need the protection any more? He peered in every direction…
