With Vivienne fast behind him, Erik eased his way down the stone pathway. A light appeared after they turned one corner and their course became easier as a result. The sounds of activity grew louder, as well, the scrape of boots on stone and the low rumble of men’s voices becoming more clear with each step.
A woman still screamed periodically, which was most troubling. Erik rounded a corner and a lit portal gaped wide before them. He flattened Vivienne into the wall behind him and listened.
There were no sounds of pursuit. He glanced back at Vivienne, intending to tell her to wait, but one glance at her determined expression told him that she would not be persuaded to do so. He drew his blade soundlessly, lifting a finger to silence her protest. He sidled closer and peered around the cor
