Aveline's breaths came in short gasps as she ran through the forest, Gabriel's weight heavy on her shoulder. Blood flowed through his shirt, staining her hands and clothes. Behind them, the tiny sounds of Cassian's wolves became distant, but her instincts told her they weren't safe yet.
"Stay with me," she urged Gabriel, her voice strained. "We're almost there."
His reply was a weak groan, but she felt him tighten his grip on her arm, a silent reassurance that he was still holding on, though he looked almost gone.
The battle had been brutal. Cassian's forces were relentless, their attacks coordinated and merciless. Aveline and Gabriel had fought bravely, their teamwork pushing back wave after wave of rogues. But the total numbers overwhelmed them.
