Zara’s POV
The tunnels smelled ancient.
Not just old.
Ancient.
Stone, dust, damp earth… and something metallic beneath it all, like forgotten blood pressed into the walls.
My torchlight flickered across narrow carvings as we descended deeper beneath the fortress. Crescent symbols lined the passageways—moons, wolves, crowns intertwined so intricately they almost seemed alive.
Davon walked behind me carrying enough supplies for a small migration.
“If cave creatures attack,” he announced, “I expect gratitude for my preparedness.”
Kael glanced at him once.
“If cave creatures attack, throw yourself first.”
“Hostile environment.”
Greyson’s hand remained at the small of my back as we moved.
Not controlling.
Guiding.
Every time the tunnel narrowed or footing shifted, his touch steadi
