Chapter 182:

The night was mercilessly cold.

Fog drifted across the forest floor, swallowing their footsteps as they trudged deeper into the dark.

Behind them, Caius leaned heavily on Kael’s shoulder, his breath shallow. Romano limped a few paces behind, muttering curses under his breath. Lena moved beside Selene, glancing back every few seconds to make sure they weren't followed.

They stopped only when they reached a clearing. A ruined chapel stood in the center, its walls half-swallowed by vines and carvings on it.

“This will do,” Selene said softly. “We’ll rest here till morning.”

Lena nodded, scanning the area. “No scent of enemies, but I'll keep watch.”

Selene knelt...