The stone felt strange under my shoes after running so far in the woods. I considered Marcelle's warning not to come here. I considered the warding spell that kept humans from getting close. No, we weren't wanted here, and because no one had leaped out at us with swords drawn didn't make it any different.

Julie walked one step ahead. When she reached the landing that led to the door, she froze. "Kim, don't you feel that?"

I shook my head. "No. I don't feel ...