CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND NINETY THREE - LOST AND FOUND

The work was grueling, and the constant danger of further cave-ins kept them on edge. Every shift of the rocks around them caused hearts to race and breath to catch. During a brief pause to catch their breath, Freya turned to Arryk, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'm scared," she admitted. "What if we can't get out?" Arryk took her hand, squeezing it gently. "We will," he said with a conviction he didn't entirely feel. "We have to believe that. And even if... even if the worst happens, I'm glad I'm here with you." Freya's eyes widened at his words, a mixture of fear and something deeper reflected in them. She leaned in, resting her forehead against his. "Me too," she whispered. Their moment was interrupted by a shout from Erik. "I think we're getting close!" he called out. "I can feel the air moving more strongly now." Renewed hope surged through the group, giving them a second wind. They redoubled their efforts, pushing and pulling at the rocks with newfound strength. Sudden