I watched the forest entrance while Maya finished her radio conversation. The urgency in her voice told me everything I needed to know about the escalating situation.
"The eastern perimeter team found five hikers unconscious," Maya announced grimly. "Same symptoms as the officers."
Aaron cursed under his breath. "This thing is spreading its influence."
Maya holstered her radio and looked at me with grudging consideration. "Dr. Hayes, if we proceed with Aaron's compromise, what exactly would you be looking for?"
"Spiritual energy patterns. The Azan's feeding range and power level."
"And you can determine that how?"
"Traditional methods that most people have forgotten."
Maya's skepticism was obvious, but the mounting casualties were forcing her hand. "Fine. You can approach the perimeter under strict conditions."
Before I could respond, shouts erupted from the forest edge. Three figures stumbled out of the treeline, moving with obvious exhaustion and defeat.
