The cold settled fast over the mountain. The small fire flickered weakly, its light swallowed by thick shadows creeping from every corner. Alister’s muscles ached in every joint. His leg throbbed sharply with every heartbeat. But the pain was a dull companion compared to the fear that had wrapped itself around his chest like a heavy chain.
Milo shivered nearby, still clutching his jacket close. His eyes were wide and restless, reflecting the tiny flames. Kara sat close by, cleaning a shallow cut on her arm. Her face was hard and tired, but her eyes burned with determination. Jules was scanning the dark treeline again and again, refusing to let his guard down.
Alister’s gaze drifted to the vast mountain that surrounded them. Tall, silent, unmoving. But it felt like it was watching, waitin
