The growls outside the cave grew louder, echoing through the damp, cold stone walls like a chilling reminder that we were far from safe. My heart pounded in my chest as I sat, feeling the weight of the moment pressing down on me. Kieran was tense, his body poised at the cave entrance, ready to defend us with his life if need be.
But something stirred deep within me—a strange, unfamiliar energy. It bubbled under my skin, like fire and ice all at once, surging through my veins, pulling at something deep inside. I squeezed my eyes shut, willing the sensation away, but it was persistent, gnawing at the edges of my consciousness.
Kieran crouched down in front of me again, his green eyes scanning my face with concern. "Aylin, are you alright?" he asked softly, his voice laced with worry. His
