Athena

The forest was quiet in the eerie way that comes just before a storm. Every leaf, every twig, seemed to hold its breath, anticipating the chaos that was coming. My eyes scanned the treeline, noting every shadow, every movement, every hint of Gian’s approach. Even though the sun was rising, its light did little to chase the tension that gripped the Grayhound territory.

Beauty and I stood at the highest ridge, surveying the battlefield that would soon erupt again. Her presence, ...