Alex tore through the corridors like a madman, his boots pounding against the stone floor as if the rhythm could drown out the dread clawing at his chest.
His lungs burned, but he didn't stop, not when every breath carried one desperate thought - Meredith.
The air reeked of smoke. Shouts and alarm bells filled the fortress, echoing through the hallways.
Panic erupted everywhere; servants running with buckets, knights shouting orders, and the orange glow of flames licking the ceiling ahead. Heat pressed against his skin as he reached the burning site.
The main entrance towards the married couples' quarters was ablaze. Fire roared like a living beast, devouring wood and stone alike. The view was painted red and grey, contrasting with the pale winter landscape.
"No—Mer!" Alex's cry tore from his throat as he stumbled forward, seeing the first wall collapse.
