Nora's POV
The dark energy pulses through the forest in relentless waves, making my nerves jump and dance beneath my skin. I drop into a crouch, pressing my palms against the cool earth to anchor myself against the chaotic vibrations.
Movement flickers through the trees behind me. I snap upright and spin around as the energy signature shifts, turning unmistakably malevolent.
"Come on out," I call into the shadows where the demon lurks. "I can feel you watching me." My elbow bends as I raise one hand, positioning it defensively in front of my body.
Magic crackles around my fingertips, but I hold back from forming a full energy sphere. Low-level demons spook easily, and the sight of raw power might send this one fleeing before I can take it down. Then something shifts behind me, and I whip around, azure energy streaming from my fingers. The creature bolts with a guttural grunt.
