Tansy moved like a streak of wind through the forest.
She sprinted forward, barely touching the ground before springing onto the trunk of a nearby tree. Her feet pushed off the bark, and she vaulted onto a branch before leaping to the next tree with effortless agility.
Tyler followed behind her.
But the difference in speed was obvious.
While Tyler could run fast, Tansy moved through the forest as if she had grown up inside it. Every step was precise, every jump perfectly timed. She used roots, branches, and rocks like stepping stones.
Behind them, the forest exploded with noise.
Deep, angry grunts echoed between the trees.
The giant ostriches had noticed them.
Not just one.
An entire pack.
At least eight of the nine-foot-tall birds thundered through the undergrowth, their powerful legs kicking up dirt and leaves as they chased the two intruders.
The "simple hunt" Tansy had planned had turned into a disaster.
Their hidden position had been discovered.
