**Winter's POV**
The instant I hit the water, I understood how small and powerless I truly was against nature’s sheer force. The waterfall was a beast, dragging me under with merciless fervour. My world became a torrential blur of bubbles and darkness as the icy water encased me entirely.
Panic clawed at my mind as I fought against the current, my limbs flailing in desperation. The relentless pull made it almost impossible to know which way was up. My lungs screamed for air, and the need for breath overrode every coherent thought. I kicked harder, my resolve unwavering though my strength ebbed.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity trapped beneath the surface, my head broke free of the turbulent waters. I gasped, drawing in a much-needed breath. But the struggle wasn’t over yet. The
