ARTEMIS’ POV

We sprint through the forest for what feels like an eternity, the sheer force of pent-up energy disappearing with every step until we come to a slow, panting halt.

We find ourselves beside a secluded pond, its surface reflecting the moon's glow. I kneel down, allowing Sera to dismount.

"That was amazing!" she bursts out, her feet barely touching the ground before she's marveling at the world around her.

The wind has turned her hair into a wild, frizzy masterpiece, and she finds ...