A Traitor Amongst Us

The molten depths of the volcanic ravine pulsed like the heartbeat of Aetheris itself, casting a hellish red glow onto the jagged rocks that lined its edges. The air was thick with sulfur, each breath burning like fire in their lungs. The group paused at the edge, the oppressive heat and looming silence making even Kael hesitate.

"We camp here," Sylvia declared, her wings shimmering faintly as she surveyed the ravine. Her voice carried the authority of someone used to being obeyed. "The ravine is dangerous enough in the light. Crossing it in the dark would be suicide."

Kael grunted, his amber eyes scanning the molten abyss below. "Fine. But let's make it quick. I don't like staying in one place too long."

James nodded, dropping his pack to the ground and pulling out his tools. "I can set up some alarms," he offered, trying to keep his voice steady. The fight with the molten serpent had rattled him more than he cared to admit, and the idea of rest was tempting.