Chapter 25 · She stared at it. “I can get up

She stared at it. “I can get up myself.”

“Then do it faster.”

The fortress shook again.

A deep boom rolled through the floor. Dust fell from the ceiling. Somewhere beyond the den, metal doors slammed shut one after another.

Seraphina grabbed his hand.

“Five paces,” she said. “We stay together.”

“I know.”

“No running off.”

“I’m offended you’d suggest it.”

“You ran into an armory.”

“And it worked.”

“It’s on fire.”

“Still worked.”

The remaining prisoners poured through the main gate. Guards chased them from the smoke. Seraphina pulled Raven toward the east passage.

“Which way?” he asked.

“Vault corridor.”

“Sounds safe.”

“It connects to the lower tunnels.”

“Those are sealed.”

“Not with the pass.”

Behind them, the warlord shouted from the stairwell. “Seal every exit! Don’t let them reach the vault!”

Raven looked at Seraphina. “You heard him.”

“I did.”

“That was not a confident answer.”

“It was the only answer you’re getting.”

They ran.

The chain dragged between them, flashing in the firelight. Raven kept one hand locked around hers. He could feel every stumble through the tether, every spike of pain when his wounded arm swung too far. Her fingers were cold. His palm was hot.