"How much farther?" she murmured, her voice hushed.

Damien's jaw tightened. "Not far now. We should reach the safe house before nightfall."

A twig snapped underfoot, and Seraphina whirled around, her dagger drawn. "We're being followed," she hissed.

Aiden's eyes widened with fear. "Asher's men?"

"Quiet!" Damien growled, his senses on high alert.

The group froze, listening intently to the eerie silence of the forest. Elara's heart pounded in her ears, her palms growing slick with sweat as she gripped her weapon.

Suddenly, a figure burst from the shadows, their movements a blur of speed and aggression. Damien reacted instantly, catching the attacker's arm mid-strike and slamming them against a...