Chapter 128

~ Elara’s POV

The trek with Rufus towards my father's supposed location had been arduous. Days blurred into nights, the dense canopy offering scant sunlight. Rufus remained by my side, my keen senses constantly on alert. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the trees thinned, revealing a desolate mountain range.

A shiver ran down my spine as I spotted a dark, gaping maw nestled at the base of the highest peak. It couldn't be. The cave. The one from my connection with my father.

Fear warred with desperation. Taking a deep breath, I linked with my father once more. This time, raw, agonizing screams reached me.

“ My father, It was him,” I told Rufus.

Heart pounding a frantic tattoo against my ribs, I scrambled down the rocky slope, Rufus hot on my heels. The stench of damp earth and something metallic filled the air as we reached the cave entrance. A low growl rumbled from within, sending shivers down my spine.

Ignoring the fear, I pushed past the ragged curtain concealing the entra