The labyrinth fell away behind us, the walls dissolving into shadows, the green light fading to a distant pulse. We walked in silence, the only sounds were our footsteps on the smooth stone and the soft crackle of the torches that still flickered in the volunteers' hands. The whispers had quieted, but I could feel them watching, waiting, gathering their strength for whatever came next. The air was colder now, thicker, pressing against my lungs with each breath.
Runa walked beside me, her hand on her sword, her eyes scanning the darkness. She had not spoken since I told her about Selene, about the memory, about the death I had relived. But I felt her presence like a shield, a reminder that I was not alone. Her breathing was steady and controlled, the breathing of a warrior preparing for battle.
