CHAPTER 112 THE RESCUE

Minerva The cave was colder than I remembered, the air thick with the scent of damp earth and old magic. Shadows lurked in the corners, making the darkness seem almost alive. I moved carefully, my steps echoing softly off the stone walls. The deeper I went, the stronger the aura of dark magic became. I knew Meredith was somewhere, and I had to find her. When I finally saw her, my heart clenched. Dark chains of magic bound Meredith, and her body slumped against the rough stone wall. Her once-bright eyes were now filled with fear and exhaustion. Her skin was pale, almost translucent, and she shivered despite the oppressive cold of the cave. “Meredith,” I called softly, kneeling beside her. She looked up, her eyes widening in recognition and relief. “Minerva,” she whispered, her voice hoarse and weak. “You came.” I nodded, reaching out to touch the chains that held her. They pulsed with a dark energy, responding to my touch with a faint hum. “I’m here. I’m going to g