Athena

The forest was eerily quiet after the clash. The adrenaline that had pumped through my veins was fading, leaving only the ache of bruises, cuts, and fatigue. Every step I took felt heavier, my muscles stiff from the hours of constant motion. Beauty walked beside me, silent, her eyes sharp and alert, scanning the perimeter for any sign of the Dark Moon warriors still lurking.

“Are you hurt badly?” she finally asked, breaking the silence.

I shook my head, though the pain ...