Kapitel 27: Ch. 26: Root of All Evil, Part 1

"The trees, they're eating people!" "Penn!" he exclaimed, in a panic. He whipped his head to look around from his higher perch as Nathan held him steady in his arms. "Oh, my god. All the people who fell, they're in danger!"

Penn lifted his head and looked behind into the dark, dense forest closing in. The trees teetered, moving toward the startled awakened. It was strange, for life forms that should stay put for their whole lives should always remain rooted. The soldier closed his gaping mouth, caught his breath, and clung to Nathan's jacket.

Nathan shifted Penn's weight in his arms to his side. Settling the guide on his right hip, his right arm held Penn in place and drew his sword with his left. Penn couldn't argue. So, he hugged Nathan's neck—ready to cleanse the esper's mana.

"Are you still able to fight while holding me like this?" Penn questioned, brows furrowing. "I can always run behind you…"