THE HEIRESS VOW - Chapter 27

Chapter 27: The Enemy’s Stronghold
The iron door clanged shut behind them, and Ava’s heart raced. The dimly lit room smelled of damp and decay, the shadows twisting into grotesque shapes. Chains rattled as Liam was forced into a chair beside her, their captors’ heavy footsteps echoing ominously in the confined space.

Ava exchanged a quick, defiant glance with Liam, his blue eyes filled with unspoken determination. She knew they had to stay strong, even as their situation grew increasingly dire.

“Tell us what we need to know,” the interrogator demanded, his voice a low growl. He circled them like a predator, his eyes gleaming with cruel amusement.

Ava’s mind raced. She needed to buy them time, think of a way out. “We don’t know anything,” she said, her voice steady despite the fear gnawing at her insides.

The interrogator’s lips curled into a sneer. “Lies,” he hissed. “You’ve been a thorn in our side for too long, Ava. It’s time to pay the price.”

Without warning, he grabbed her arm, his grip like iron. Pain shot through her, but she bit her lip, refusing to cry out. She wouldn’t give him the satisfaction.

Liam tensed beside her, his muscles straining against the bonds. “Let her go,” he snarled, his voice a dangerous edge.

The interrogator chuckled, a dark, humorless sound. “Ah, the gallant hero,” he mocked. “Don’t worry, you’ll get your turn.”

Ava’s eyes darted around the room, searching for any sign of weakness, any escape route. The walls were bare, the single window barred and too high to reach. But there was something—someone—lurking in the shadows. A figure watching silently.

Her gaze locked onto the figure, a flicker of recognition sparking. Could it be? She kept her expression neutral, hoping the interrogator wouldn’t notice her interest.

The interrogator stepped back, crossing his arms. “I’ll give you one last chance. Talk, or suffer the consequences.”

Ava lifted her chin, defiance burning in her eyes. “We have nothing to say to you.”

The interrogator’s face darkened with rage. He turned to his henchmen, gesturing sharply. “Teach them a lesson.”

As the guards advanced, the figure in the shadows moved. In a swift, silent motion, they incapacitated one of the guards, then another. Chaos erupted as the mysterious ally fought with precision and skill, turning the tide in Ava and Liam’s favor.

Liam seized the opportunity, breaking free from his bonds and tackling the remaining guard. Ava followed suit, grabbing a discarded weapon and positioning herself back-to-back with Liam. Together, they faced the interrogator, who now looked less certain of his victory.

“You’ll regret this,” the interrogator spat, backing away. But before he could flee, the mysterious figure stepped forward, blocking his path.

The hooded figure pulled back their hood, revealing a familiar face. “Hello, brother,” the ally said, voice dripping with contempt.

Ava’s breath caught in her throat. It was Elara, a long-lost relative, presumed dead. Her eyes glinted with a dangerous mix of anger and satisfaction. “I’ve waited a long time for this.”

The interrogator’s eyes widened in shock. “Elara? But… how?”

“No time for explanations,” Elara cut him off, her gaze shifting to Ava and Liam. “We need to get out of here, now.”

Ava nodded, still processing the revelation. “We’ll follow your lead.”

As they made their way through the labyrinthine corridors of the stronghold, Elara moved with confident precision, guiding them past guards and traps. Ava couldn’t shake the feeling of betrayal and confusion. Why had Elara helped them? What was her true motive?

They reached a hidden passage, and Elara motioned for them to enter. “This way,” she whispered, urgency in her voice.

Once inside, the narrow tunnel seemed to close in around them. The air was thick with tension and unspoken questions. They emerged into the cool night, the stars a stark contrast to the darkness they’d just escaped.

Ava turned to Elara, her mind racing. “Why did you help us? What’s your game?”

Elara’s expression softened, a hint of vulnerability breaking through her tough exterior. “I owe you an explanation, but now’s not the time. We’re not safe yet.”

Liam placed a reassuring hand on Ava’s shoulder. “We’ll get answers soon. For now, we need to trust her.”

Ava nodded reluctantly, her eyes still wary. “Alright. But we’ll be watching you, Elara.”

Elara gave a curt nod. “Fair enough. Let’s move.”

They journeyed through the dense forest, the sounds of pursuit echoing faintly behind them. As dawn approached, exhaustion tugged at Ava’s limbs, but she pushed on, driven by the need to survive and the burning questions that lingered.

Just when she thought they were safe, Elara halted, her eyes scanning the surroundings. “We’re not alone,” she murmured, drawing her weapon.

Ava and Liam readied themselves, their senses on high alert. From the shadows emerged a figure Ava hadn’t expected—a face she hadn’t seen in years. Her heart stopped as the realization hit her.

“Ava,” the figure said, stepping into the light. “It’s been a long time.”

Ava’s breath caught, her mind reeling. It was her estranged uncle, believed to be dead. His eyes glinted with a twisted sense of justice, a dangerous edge to his smile. “I have plans for you, my dear niece.”