Athena

The forest clearing was alive with tension, the moonlight bouncing off the blades of weapons, illuminating faces twisted in anticipation. Every breath I took felt like it might betray our position. Gian stood in front of us, his presence radiating power, a predator ready to strike at the smallest sign of weakness.

I held Light and Liam tighter, feeling the rapid thump of their tiny hearts against my chest. Their fear fueled me, sharpened my senses. I could feel every movement around ...