As Alec and Lauren stepped through Alec's portal, they were teleported directly to Anthony's house, situated in a deserted place in Acheron. They stood on the worn-out wooden porch, surrounded by an unsettling stillness.
In the distance, towering trees loomed ominously, their branches stretching toward the darkened sky. Suddenly, as if disturbed by the newcomers' arrival, a massive flock of birds burst forth from the treetops. With a cacophony of fluttering wings and shrill cries, the birds soared into the midnight sky.
Lauren was about to raise her hand to knock on the door when Alec held her back, his face hard and unreadable as if he sensed something wasn't right.
"What is it?" asked Lauren, curiosity peeking through her voice laced with worry.
"I smell blood."
Lauren's worry deepened, her gaze darting around the deserted landscape, searching for any signs of enemies. The silence seemed to press upon them, amplifying her unease.
