The heavy dungeon door creaked open, as Maxi stepped out. The cold, damp air of the dungeon clung to her skin, a grim reminder of the hours she'd spent in captivity.
Yet, she walked with her head held high, her swag unmistaken. No sooner had she emerged from the dark than Islinda rushed towards her, engulfing her in a tight embrace.
"Thank the gods, you're okay," Islinda whispered, her voice thick with relief. The tension in her muscles eased as she held Maxi close, her fears momentarily soothed.
Maxi smiled, returning the embrace with equal warmth. For a few precious seconds, the two women clung to each other, drawing comfort from the strong bond of their friendship.
When Islinda finally pulled back, her eyes quickly scanned Maxi's body, searching for any signs of injury. "Are you hurt anywhere?"
Maxi shook her head, her usual bravado coming to the fore. "Nah, those bunch of cunts can't do a shit to—"