Chapter 43
The structure stood silent in front of them, its tall stone walls rising into the cold sky. Ancient markings covered every surface, faintly glowing under the dim light. The carvings looked older than anything Ariana had ever seen, and when she stared too long, they almost seemed to shift. The entrance stretched wide and dark, like something waiting.
Ariana slowed as they approached, her steps growing more careful. The closer she got, the tighter her chest felt, not fear, but something deeper she couldn't explain. It pulled at her, steady and persistent. "This place feels different," she said quietly.
Kael studied the structure, his expression sharp. "It feels like it's watching us." Ariana let out a small breath. "That's not comforting." Kael glanced at her briefly. "It's not supposed to be."
