“We were safe,” I said, “but this magic feels similar to what’s used in the blood spell. So if I could find this cave…”

“Then Ornella can find it, too,” Roberto finished, muttering a curse under his breath.

“We should try to get back to Ferville,” I told him.

He stepped closer. “Agreed, but…what about the blood spell? Did it work?”

“I’m not sure.” I gave him a wry smile. “Leandra said it might take time. I just hope I’ll know when the bonds form.”

He exhaled sharply. “Yeah, let’s hope it works fast.”

As we neared the entrance, the cave wall that had sealed us in vanished. With caution,...