23
Max closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He'd never felt so drained before. His arms and legs shook and he dug his fingers into the ground to steady himself. His eyelids felt weighted down and the urge to sleep was strong.
Milo, he thought. He shook off the fatigue and tried to stand up, but a wave of dizziness kept him on the ground.
“Take it easy,” said Knoxby. “It'll pass.”
They jolted when a loud caw sounded above their heads. Three large crows perched on the lower branches of a bare tree.
“Did you really think you could leave us behind?” asked one crow.
The voice sounded familiar. Hodgenock turned and stood with his hand on his hips. “Well, if this ain't déjà vu,” he said. He turned to Max and pointed behind him. “Your aunts and Petunia have decided to join us.” Max stood
