RAGNA POV...
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While the vicious wolf was out there prowling and scouting the surroundings under my control, I didn't waste even a single breath. I buried Marcus myself—deep inside that suffocating rocky cave. I poured earth-elemental energy into the ground with trembling focus, feeling the stone beneath my palms respond obediently. The cave floor groaned, sank, and slowly folded inward like a grave swallowing its secret, crumbling over itself until not even a trace of him remained. When it was done, it felt final in a way that made my chest tighten.
Only after every last preparation was complete did I cautiously raise my head and let it peek out from the darkness of the cave. I didn't rush—not anymore. I activated my perception first, stretching it outward, combing through my surroundings layer by layer, making sure nothing lurked nearby. Only when I was certain did I step out.
