Chapter 36: Hidden Threats

Panic surged through Kara's veins as she struggled to break free from the creature's iron grip. Its sinister cackles only fueled her determination to escape its clutches. The scales on its skin seared her flesh like acid, and every attempt to break free seemed futile.

"Let me go!" she yelled again; desperation evident in her voice. But the creature only tightened its hold, reveling in her helplessness.

From the corner of her eye, she caught sight of Ramses charging toward them, sword in hand. Hope swelled within her for a moment, but it was quickly extinguished as the creature effortlessly knocked him aside with a swipe of its tail.

Pinned to the ground, Kara's mind raced for a way out of this dire situation. "Is this what you meant by claiming your price when we were done? Are you going to hold me hostage?" she questioned, her voice filled with defiance and fear.