Pawn, Kerry, Alvi, and Azure stepped out of the cell at last, finally free.
Ellio rushed toward Kerry and wrapped his arms around her. The Luna returned the embrace, though her smile was faint and weary, burdened by everything they had endured. When he finally let go, he hurried to the twin phoenixes and pulled them both into a tight embrace at the same time, relief washing over him.
He was about to speak when Damascus' firm voice cut through the silence.
"You need to get everyone out of here," he commanded Ellio, his tone carrying unquestionable authority. "Argus and Armon will guide you through the secret underground passage. There, you'll meet Dafni and Davai. They will escort all of you to a safe place... far away from here."
A heavy silence followed.
"But what about you?" Ellio a
