The path Eir opened led into a region that even Liora didn't seem to recognize.
The trees grew farther apart as the group continued, replaced by short, thick trunks whose roots covered almost the entire surface of the ground. The four Order agents carrying Neria's stretcher had to slow down several times, but the roots withdrew before they were forced to lift the woman or tilt the stretcher too far.
Ester noticed after the third time.
"She's preparing the terrain for Neria."
Liora nodded.
"Mom knows she can't walk."
Neria, lying on the stretcher, sighed.
"Everyone knows."
"You complained quite a lot," Damon replied.
"Because everyone keeps talking about it."
"It's difficult to ignore when four people are carrying you."
Neria turned her face away.
Xue Mei laughed.
