We have been caught

Kavin held tightly onto the girl without legs, pressing her frail body against his own. His grip was firm, almost desperate, as if she would slip away if he dared loosen it even slightly.

He still couldn't understand why Nimora had handed him someone so close to death. Normally, he wouldn't have accepted such a deal—it was outrageous. He was no caretaker, no healer.

But Nimora had ensured he had no choice.

Her words still rang in his ears, cold and sharp like the edge of a blade.

"If I see you alive without her as intact as she is now, I will cut you down myself."

That was why his grip remained tight. That was why he hadn't let go, even for a second.

Around him, the survivors moved like ghosts. Some were tending to their wounds, others stood in silence, eyes darting, waiting for another attack.

The aftermath of the battle was grim.