You are lucky I was here

Aeliana's thoughts swirled in a storm of unease and defiance, her eyes narrowing at Luca as he leaned back. But before she could formulate a proper retort, the air shifted around them.

Swoosh!

A sudden gust of wind rushed through the cavern, carrying with it an unfamiliar chill. The flickering flames wavered, shadows dancing wildly along the jagged walls.

"Oh…" Luca's voice was low, his tone calm but laced with sharp awareness. His smirk faded, replaced by an expression of quiet focus. "We have company, it seems."

Aeliana tensed, her gaze snapping toward the cavern entrance. The soft, distant rustle of movement reached her ears, barely discernible but unmistakable in the otherwise stillness.

Luca stood fluidly, his movements graceful and deliberate as he reached for his weapon. He glanced at her briefly, his dark eyes steady.

"Stay here," he said, his voice firm but not unkind. "I'll take a look."