CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED SEVEN - A FLAWED PLAN

The early morning sun cast long shadows across the Manse grounds as Karina and Gwen huddled behind a crumbling statue, their hearts pounding a frantic rhythm against their ribs. Today was the day. Today they would attempt the impossible – a daring rescue mission into the very heart of the enemy's stronghold. Gwen, muscles coiled with nervous energy, shifted slightly, the oversized tunic barely containing her powerful Gorroth form. "Remember the plan," she whispered, her voice husky with suppressed excitement. "I create a diversion in the east courtyard, drawing the guards away. You find the passage in Lady Becky's chambers and get to the dungeons." Karina nodded, gripping a makeshift dagger fashioned from a sharpened table knife. "And be careful. Don't get hurt." A wry smile flickered across Gwen's face. "Don't worry about me. I can handle a few hunters." With a final nod, they parted ways, disappearing into the labyrinthine corridors of the castle. Karina, her pulse hammering