368 Unsettling silence

The floor beneath Elle's feet suddenly shook, causing her to wobble. As she started to sway, a gasp escaped her lips, thinking she might crash onto the cold, hard ground.

But just in the nick of time, Gav reached out and grabbed her arm, pulling her back upright. 

"Thanks," she mumbled, her voice shaky from the surprise. He nodded, his eyes scanning the surroundings, trying to decipher the cause of the sudden tremor.

"E-earthquake?" Elle stammered, her eyes wide.

"I don't believe so," he replied calmly. His gaze darted towards the castle, and whatever he saw or noticed in its shadows darkened his expression. "Stay behind me, Izabelle," he cautioned. "Entering this castle might not be the best decision right now. It's not safe."

"But Sebastian is in there!" Elle protested.

"I know," Gav replied firmly. "But there's something wrong inside. It's more than just a fight."