"My blood," Gad said, staring at the c***k. "That's what opens it."
‘Willingly offered,’ the voice confirmed. ‘Not much. Enough to prove intent.’
The cold behind them crept closer through the tunnel, and Doran turned sharply toward the sound. "It's coming back. We don't have time to deliberate."
"Then I don't deliberate." Gad pulled the small knife from his belt, pressing the edge against his palm before anyone could stop him.
"Wait," Mira said, grabbing his wrist. "At least know what you're stepping into first."
"We don't have that luxury."
"Make the luxury." Her grip tightened. "You've done that enough times tonight. Once more won't kill us faster than rushing in blind."
Gad hesitated, then nodded once, lowering the knife.
Bellan moved closer to the c***k, voice urgent. "Voice, i
