I sprinted down the dark corridor, my heart pounding like a drum. The cold, damp air of the slave chambers clung to my skin as I ran, my footsteps echoing against the stone walls. I couldn't stop thinking about Rachel. The image of her lifeless body haunted me, and I felt like I could hardly breathe.
As I neared the end of the corridor, I saw Lucas waiting for me. His face was tense, his eyes scanning the shadows. He saw me running towards him, tears streaming down my face, and his expression turned to one of concern and urgency.
"Jessica, what's wrong?" Lucas asked, stepping forward to catch me as I nearly collapsed into his arms.
"Rachel," I sobbed, my voice breaking. "The king... he killed her."
Lucas's expression darkened, and he held me tightly, feeling my body tremble. "We knew he was capable of this. But it's happening faster than we thought."
My face was wet with tears and sweat. "We have to leave, Lucas. Now! Before he finds out we know."
