We ran until the sounds of fighting disappeared.
Until the roars of the Tunnel Wardens became distant echoes.
Until there was nothing behind us but darkness.
Kael's hand remained wrapped around mine.
Neither of us mentioned it.
Eventually, the narrow passage began to widen.
The rough black stone beneath our feet changed first.
Smooth.
Pale.
Almost silver.
Then the air changed.
The damp smell of the tunnels disappeared.
In its place came something impossible.
Wildflowers.
Pine.
Fresh water.
I slowed.
"Kael."
"I smell it."
Clarissa stirred inside me.
Not frightened.
Not alert.
Something else.
Emotional.
"Lara..."
"What?"
"I know this scent."
My heart tightened.
"From where?"
"I don't know."
Ahead, faint silver light appeared.
Kael released my hand only long eno
