"Sit, Rachel," Demetrius murmured, pulling out the heavy wooden chair for me. "You need to eat before we clear the gates."
I offered him a grateful smile and took my seat, trying to ignore the way the elders were still tracking my every move. Athena slid into the chair on my other side, immediately piling a plate high with thick-cut bacon, roasted potatoes, and a massive slice of dense bread.
"Eat up," she whispered, leaning over. "Once we cross into the marsh borders, it's all dried rations and cold water. Enjoy the luxury while it lasts."
"Thank you," I murmured, picking up a fork. Now that the initial panic had faded, the savory aroma of the food actually made my stomach growl.
Demetrius returned to his spot at the head of the table, his entire demeanor shifting back to the commandi
