The cold air bit at River’s skin as she and Heiko descended into the dungeon. The torches lining the stone corridor flickered violently, casting long, wavering shadows along the damp walls. Each step echoed with ominous finality, and the silence between her and Heiko spoke volumes — heavy with unspoken fears and hard-earned resolve. The door at the end stood slightly ajar, revealing the flickering silhouette of Thas — tall, imperious, and still too proud for a prisoner. As they entered, he turned his head sharply. His eyes locked onto them, fierce and unreadable. For a moment, nothing moved. Then his expression faltered. Relief. Just a sliver of it cracked through his usually impenetrable facade. “River...” he breathed. “Thank the Goddess you’re here. Hopefully, you can drill some sen

