KELLY THOMPSON'S POV
The air grew denser, the shadows darker, as we pressed on through the enemy's lair. With each step closer to the stronghold's heart, a palpable tension wound its way around my spine, constricting like a serpent ready to strike. The silence was oppressive, a stark contrast to the cacophony of battle we'd left behind.
"Keep your senses sharp," I whispered, my voice barely a breath against the cold stone walls that funneled us forward. The scent of ancient magic and malice filled my nostrils—The Black Faes' sorcery thickened the air, nearly tangible in its potency.
Eden moved at my side, his green eyes aglow with the power he contained—a beacon of hope and a reminder of what we fought for. His youth did not dampen the resolve etched into his features; if anything, it sharpened it.