The city square was overflowing with people, their murmurs a mix of excitement and unease. The news of Lord Fabian’s execution had spread through the kingdom like wildfire, and now the people had gathered, sensing that something big was about to happen. Jess stood beside Luca on the stone platform which was located at the heart of the city, her fingers interlaced with his. The warmth of his grip on her was steadying, his silent promise of protection.
A gust of wind swept through the square, carrying with it the sharp scent of anticipation. Then, a wind of quietness fell over the crowd as a figure stepped forward from the shadows of an alley which was nearby.
Athena.
Draped in a crimson gown that hugged her body tightly, she exuded an aura of power for someone who was on the run. Her str
