Chapter 52: Reunion
As Dune and the others leaped off the boat, it dissolved into streams of Neba, the liquid energy slithering back toward Nely like a serpent returning to its master.
Without wasting another second, they dashed forward, moving swiftly through the darkened ruins of the sinking island.
Dune's mind raced as he ran. Was it really a good idea to go back to Elijah now? The thought lingered, but deep down, he knew the answer. *Elijah wouldn't be able to handle all four of us at once... he's probably still there, he won't let that building go. I'm sure he's waiting for me.*
Glancing back at the others, he kept his voice low but firm. "We're heading to the center. There's a tall building where we can rest." His gaze sharpened. "I have... a companion there. His name is Elijah."
"Elijah?" Atlas questioned.
"His ability is tricky," Dune continued. "He can teleport anywhere between one to ten steps, and he can keep doing it until he runs out of Neba."
The group collectively made a face.
"He's worse than you," Nely muttered, shaking her head.
"Not surprised you two found each other," Ned added, smirking.
Dune shot them a glare. "Aight, shut up."
They kept moving, weaving through the remnants of the island's forest, stepping over fallen branches and debris. The faint ruins of a village came into view, decayed buildings barely standing against the pull of the toxic ocean.