Chapter 4 — The Siege of Eldwynd Temple

Third Person (alternating focus between Scarlett and Kaiden)

The faint hum of the barrier around the chamber did little to soothe Scarlett’s nerves. Her amber eyes flicked between the glowing runes etched into the stone altar and the shadowy corridor beyond. The hunters were closing in, their boots pounding against the temple’s ancient stone floors in a steady rhythm that seemed to mimic the racing of her own heart. Her blood thrummed in rebellion against the suppressive magic that grew heavier with every step they took. Gritting her teeth, she tightened her grip on the dagger in her hand, the worn leather hilt grounding her amidst the rising tide of fear.