Chapter 32 · There's rubble on top

Kael pulled at the warped metal. It lifted two inches, then caught on something above. He shoved his fingers through the gap and felt packed dirt.

"There's rubble on top."

"Then push."

"I am pushing."

Julian's hand closed over Kael's. Together they forced the grate higher. Dirt spilled into Kael's face. He coughed, and the sound seemed huge.

Behind them, the creature began to hum.

Not loud.

Close.

Kael looked back.

A pale head filled the tunnel. It had no eyes, only shallow dents where eyes should have been. Its mouth opened wider than its face should allow. Inside, thin bone-colored threads clicked together like teeth.

Julian shoved Kael beneath the grate. "Go!"

Kael kicked through the dirt and rolled onto hard ground. He reached back. Julian grabbed his hand, but the creature seized Julian's ankle.

Julian grunted.

Kael wrapped both hands around Julian's forearm. "Let go of the grate."

"It will pull me back."

"Trust me."

Julian gave him a savage look. "You have asked for that twice tonight."

"And you are still alive."

"That is not proof."

"It's the only proof you're getting. Let go!"

Julian released the grate.

Kael pulled with everything he had.