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Chapter 48: Malrik's Lair
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2025-01-18 09:00:42A faint chill seeped into Erika’s skin as she stepped further into the dark cavern. Shadows clung to the walls, cast by flickering lanterns mounted on jagged stone. The hideout smelled of damp earth, wood smoke, and something metallic—like blood dried long ago. Malrik walked ahead, his boots crunching against the gravel floor, the sound echoing eerily in the cavernous space. He said nothing as they navigated the winding passage, but Erika could feel his presence looming, his energy oppressive.
The passage opened into a larger chamber. Wooden beams crisscrossed overhead, supporting the rocky ceiling. Makeshift furniture—a long table, mismatched chairs, and a few cots—were scattered around the room. The remnants of a fire smoldered in a stone hearth at the far end, casting a dull orange glow over the scene. There was a strange stillness about the place, as if it were caught between being abandoned and barely lived in.
Erika caught sight of movemen
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