40
I have never been afraid of small places, but inching forward through the tunnel tested my nerves. I couldn’t see Finn over my pack in front of me. It was only the sounds of him crawling forward that kept me from fearing I was utterly alone.
My body ached from the movement. Bruises covered my arms and legs. My hand cramped from clutching my lae stone as I slithered along. I wanted to stand up and stretch, but even my growing pain did not dull my gratitude for the mountain saving us from the beast.
My pack caught on a rock as I shoved it forward. I wriggled the fabric free and gritted my teeth as the very same rock dug into my ribs as I crawled over it on my forearms.
“Talk to me, Ena,” Finn said.
“I’m still here if that’s what you’re worried about.” My knee hit the same chivving ro
