Chapter 59: The Unexpected Ally

Nathanial’s presence was a lifeline, but as he worked to unlock my cell, footsteps echoed down the corridor. We froze, our eyes locked in silent communication. He handed me a small, makeshift lock-picking tool and gestured for me to hide. I slipped into the shadows behind the door, the cold, damp walls pressing against my back.

The footsteps grew louder, and then a figure stepped into the light. My heart pounded as I recognized him—Marcus Reed, Gabriel’s ruthless enforcer. My hand tightened around the tool, ready to fight if necessary.

But instead of the anticipated confrontation, Marcus did something unexpected. He pulled a key from his pocket and handed it to Nathanial, his eyes flicking toward the shadows where I hid. “You don’t have much time. Gabriel’s preparing the final ritual. If you’re going to stop him, it has to be now.”

I stepped out from my hiding place, my mind racing with questions. “Why are you helping us?”

Marcus’s expression was grim. “Gabriel’s plans have gone too f