Sacred Duel [Part 1]

The massive stone doors to Hell groaned open, the sound reverberating through the forest like the wail of a dying beast.

Birds scattered from the treetops, their startled calls filling the air, and the soldiers in Lady Nessa's retinue shifted uneasily, casting wary glances toward the yawning darkness of the tunnel.

Nessa surveyed her troops, noticing the nervous fidgeting of her younger recruits, the uncertain glances exchanged by her scouts.

Only the twins, Logan and Landen, stood motionless by her side, their expressions hardened, their bodies rigid with discipline. They showed no sign of fear or doubt, their loyalty unshakable. Nessa felt a brief swell of pride for her two most trusted soldiers.

She glanced over at Priscilla, her right hand, who was watching the mouth of the tunnel with an apprehensive frown.