Chapter Thirty-One: Into the Mines
The air grew colder as Rina led her pack toward the eastern ridge.
The entrance to the old mines yawned like a wound in the earth — dark, silent, and full of menace.
Kael fell into step beside her, his presence a steady anchor amid the creeping fear.
"Stay close," Rina whispered, her fire dimmed to a soft glow to avoid detection.
Inside, the tunnels twisted and turned, shadows dancing on rough stone walls.
Suddenly, a distant echo — chains rattling.
The pack halted.
Rina's eyes glowed brighter. "We're close."
A trap sprang — jagged stones falling from above.
Wolves leapt aside, snarling as they fought through the danger.
Finally, they reached a cold chamber where prisoners were held — including the captive's sister, pale but alive.
Rina's fire flared, melting chains and healing wounds.
But as they turned to escape, the raven woman appeared, eyes burning with fury.
"This ends now," she hissed.
Kael stepped forward, blade drawn.
Rina met the raven woman's gaze, flames licking her skin.
The final battle had begun.