Escape from Endeavor by Daniel A. Jones

  ***

  Mystique slowly moved through the underbrush, being very careful not to step on any twigs. She could almost see the fire but still hadn’t gotten a look at who had started it. She was beginning to worry that it was a trap when she heard movement near the blaze. It sounded like something was being dragged along the ground. The wind changed directions, bringing with it the distinct smell of blood no more than a few hours old. Mystique froze where she was, crouched, and waited. The rest of the group would be moving her way soon so she couldn’t wait too long. She finally made up her mind and moved a little closer and from her new vantage point could make out Leo tending to the small fire. He had not detected her yet, so she watched him for a little bit. He was lying down and seemed to be dragging his left leg behind him when he did move.