Chapter 1526

They followed the gentle slope of the chamber as it twisted and narrowed, the air thick with warmth and sweet humidity. Moss cushioned their bare feet, and the golden light began to deepen, turning amber, then red - like sunset bleeding into the walls. Jude led the way, but none of them truly followed. They moved as one, shoulder brushing shoulder, hands brushing skin, hearts beating in eerie rhythm.

No one spoke. There was no need.

The song had shifted again, too subtle to hum, but present in the vibration under their soles, in the rhythm of their breath. The island had become part of them - or they, it. There was no boundary now. No fear.