"My father should be in there," Elyra said, pointing toward the dark mouth of the stone cave.
The entrance yawned open before them, its depths swallowing the light of the torches they held.
Vardy took a step forward, his grip tightening around his sword. His expression was unreadable, his gaze locked onto the cave.
"I'll go in first," Luthor said suddenly.
The others turned toward him, startled.
Elyra's fingers curled at her sides. This wasn't part of the plan.
Vardy frowned. "No, I'll…."
"I should check if it's safe," Luthor interrupted, his tone firm. "You're the strongest among us. If something happens, we'll need you out here, ready to fight."
Selene and Ferah exchanged quick glances. They had planned for this moment, to stall, to keep Vardy from walking into whatever trap Elyra was leading him into.
Elyra, however, stiffened. She forced herself to keep her expression neutral, though her mind raced. If they delayed any longer, things could spiral out of control.
