Chapter 24:
THE PRICE OF VENGEANCE
The victory in Blackwood Forest introduced a brief period of comfort to the percent. We had disrupted Landon's plans and weakened his forces, but we knew that the war was a ways from over. The air became thick with anticipation, and we couldn't manage to pay for our protection.
As time passed, Ethan and I continued to strengthen our defenses and put together for the inevitable retaliation. My energy was developing, and I spent every spare moment honing my capabilities, determined to be ready for something to get here next.
One afternoon, as I was educated in the clearing, Marissa approached me, her expression critical. "Taya, there's something you want to recognize."
I stopped, sensing the urgency in her voice. "What is it, Marissa?"
She took a d
