Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

Besides, all the most famous fictional heroes in literature were just fighting a

common jungle tiger. Moreover, even the largest big cats in the country were a nightmare to face. Yet, compared to the black-furred Dire Tiger, those looked like its smaller cousins.noveldrama

That alone said everything about how much raw power Andrew needed to face it head-on.

The valley was surrounded on all sides by towering mountain peaks. The sun moved quickly through the sky, and by just past 1.00 p.m., the shadows had already swallowed most of the canyon. Sunlight had vanished behind the cliffs, and a heavy, suffocating gloom settled in over the group.

Two of Logan's best men had started shivering uncontrollably, and it took a harsh round of shouting from Logan to finally shut them up.

Another two hours passed, but Andrew still had not figured out a solid way to search the ruins effectively. Even Natasha had run out of patience by then and quietly begged him to consider heading back down the mountain.

Andrew let out a sigh. He was willing to take the risk, but the others clearly were not built for this kind of grind. Maybe they should head back down, rest up, and then reassess.

However, if they did leave, the trip down and back would take the better part of a day. And now, the sky was already starting to dim again. Even if they planned to return, it would have to be tomorrow at the earliest.

With so much delay, even if the treasure truly existed, it was likely already in Rafael's hands-or worse, Magnus'.

Just then, a few dust-covered figures stumbled out from the ruins. It was Kevin and three guards from the Wright family.

"This is such a goddamn waste of time. What kind of treasure would be hidden in a dump like this? Andrew you can keep looking if you want, but I'm done. Bye!" Kevin barked out his frustration, glared at Andrew, and then led the Wright family guards straight out of the canyon.

Tiana let out a long sigh. "Andy, maybe it's time we pulled out too. It took a hell of a lot just to piece together that treasure map. And now, finding the actual location is proving even harder. What if we returned to Blumedale, regrouped, and brought in professionals? We could do it right."

Andrew's voice was flat. "We can leave if you want. But if we do, the treasure's as good as gone. I'm not chasing this for the gold. All I care about is making sure Rafael and Mosby don't get their filthy hands on it. More importantly, I owe Mr. and Ms. Bates some closure

Tiana's tone softened. "I get it. I really do. But look around, Andy-we're out of options. The Wright family's gone, and honestly, I've got nothing left in the tank either."

Andrew stood up and made his call. "Alright. Then, we'll pull back to the village at the foot of the mountain. I need to speak with Chief Flintspire anyway. There's something he needs to confirm for me."

Just then, Chantelle stepped forward, her expression firm. "Mr. Lloyd, we can't leave yet."

Andrew raised an eyebrow, letting out a half-laugh. "Can't leave? What, you actually want to keep going?"

Chantelle's lips trembled. "It's not that I want to, but someone knows where the entrance is."

Andrew narrowed his eyes. "What are you talking about?"

Chantelle's eyes lit up as a faint smile formed. "Tora. He knows where it is. Last night, you saved his life, remember? Looks like luck's on his side-he made it. Come with me. He says he'll only reveal the location if he sees you in person."