Blood (Part five)

As we approached the entrance of the hideout, a guard stepped forward, blocking our way.

"Halt! Who goes there?" he demanded, holding up his spear.

"We are slaves who have escaped from Lycan's mines," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady.

The guard eyed us suspiciously for a moment before nodding and stepping aside. "Follow me," he said, leading us into the dimly lit cavern.

Inside, we found ourselves in a large, open space filled with makeshift dwellings and people milling about. The air was thick with the smell of cooking fires and the sound of whispered conversations.

We were quickly surrounded by a group of rebels, all eyeing us warily. I could feel their mistrust and fear, and it made my heart sink.

"What do you want?" one of them asked, stepping forward. He was tall and lean, with a rough beard and sharp features. His eyes were piercing and intense, like he was always on high alert.

"We want to help," I said, trying to keep my voice calm. "We know about Lycan's plans to atta