Chapter 42: Into the Abyss

Cassia's heart pounded as she regarded the mysterious stranger, their sudden appearance adding another layer of uncertainty to the already tense situation. "Who are you?" she demanded, her voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through her veins.

The stranger stepped forward, the flickering firelight revealing a glimpse of their face beneath the hood. "My name is Lyra," they said, their tone urgent. "And I come with a warning about Garel."

The settlers murmured amongst themselves, casting wary glances at Garel, who remained silent under their scrutiny. Cassia exchanged a meaningful look with Elysia, silently urging her to remain vigilant.

"What kind of warning?" Cassia asked, her voice firm as she turned her attention back to Lyra. "And why should we trust you?"

Lyra's gaze bore into Cassia's, their eyes flashing with a mixture of determination and desperation. "Because Garel is not who he appears to be," they said, their voice low and urgent. "He's been working with the enemy,