The walls shook, dust drifting from cracks overhead. Clara’s hand darted for her daggers, shoulders tight, while Lyra only tilted her head and smirked like the whole world was a game.
Crimora pressed trembling fingers against her lips, crimson eyes wide, trying not to stare at the mess Kael and Selvara still were on the floor.
Then the sound came. A low drag, like claws scraping stone. Heavy. Measured. Not rushing—hunting.
Elias, already pale, let out something between a squeak and a groan. His palms slapped over his ears as he muttered, "Nope. Nope. I’m not—gods, not another one, please—"
Clara shoved him hard enough that he stumbled. "Shut it. You’ll draw it faster."
Lyra stretched, vines twitching lazily around her wrists. Her smirk was too sharp, too amused. "Mmh. Hungry one." S
