The tunnel's entrance loomed ahead, dimly lit by the flickering flames of torches mounted on the stone walls. Ava's heart pounded in her chest as she and her team crept forward, every step echoing through the underground passage. The tension was palpable, their breaths shallow and synchronized with the silent rhythm of their movement. The designated escape route had seemed promising at first, but now, with the increased security, it was turning into a deadly gamble.
"We're almost there," whispered Marcus, glancing back at Ava. His face was tense, the usually composed features marked by worry.
Ava nodded, her grip tightening on her weapon. She couldn't shake the gnawing guilt that weighed on her shoulders. Each member of the team had risked everything to ensure her safety, and now they were all in this together, their lives entwined in a dangerous dance.
