"Hisss…"
Groans echoed softly across the cold air as a strange purple mist spread through the field. It slithered along the ground like smoke, swallowing everything in sight.
The horses neighed wildly as their eyes rolled in fear. Kael's mount jerked hard, throwing him off balance. He stumbled, spun in midair, and landed roughly on the ground.
He groaned and pushed himself up, his hands pressing against the cold earth. The fog around him shimmered faintly, and his vision blurred.
When he looked ahead, his eyes widened in shock.
A group of women appeared all around him. Their skin glowed faintly in the mist. Some stood barefoot over the snow, their long hair flowing as if caught in an unseen breeze. Their eyes were deep and strange, drawing him closer. They smiled softly, their voices echoing in his head.
"Come to me…" one whispered.
"You must be tired," said another, her tone sweet and gentle. "Come rest in my arms."
