**Gael's PoV**
I panted as I looked around for an exit. Saffron was buying me time, but I couldn't shake the feeling of urgency pressing down on me. The growls of the shadows echoed in the distance, a constant reminder that I needed to act fast.
As I scanned the area, something caught my eye—a glimmer of light peeking through the thick underbrush to my left. My heart raced as I pushed through the tangled branches, adrenaline fueling my movements. I could barely think straight with the ominous sounds of the shadows lurking nearby, but instinct drove me forward.
When I broke through the foliage, I found myself in front of a doorway, framed by ancient stone that seemed to pulse with a faint glow. The entrance was partially obscured by vines and moss, giving it an almost mystical appearance. I hesitated for a moment, glancing back over my shoulder toward the chaos I had left behind.
