I silently followed the man as he led me through a series of winding tunnels. Each turn seemed to take us deeper into the mountain. The air grew warmer and thicker with humidity, and the only sound was the echo of our footsteps. I was already on edge, not knowing what this “special training” was supposed to be, but I trusted Esmeralda's instinct, and her earlier warning nagged at the back of my mind.
Athena hasn't said anything so far, so I knew I wasn't in immediate danger. She would come out if she thought she had to protect me. Perhaps I was overthinking, but I was expected to do so after what happened to me. Since that night, Esmeralda hasn't left my sight. She is like my shadow, always protecting me. I never imagined she would leave her coven for me, but she did and didn't even bat
