_Thalassa's POV_
“They’re gaining on us!” I called out to Valoria, panic rising in my voice.
“Keep running, Thalassa. Don’t stop, no matter what," Valoria cried out.
We ran, our feet pounding the forest floor. My breaths came in ragged gasps, my legs burning with exhaustion. I could feel my strength waning, but I forced myself to keep moving, driven by the primal need to protect my unborn child.
Just when I thought I couldn't go any further, I glanced back and saw no sign of the men chasing us. For a moment, I thought that the nightmare was over. But before I could say anything, Valoria pulled my arm and dragged me to the side, guiding us beneath a thick bush. We crouched down, the branches scratching at our skin, and held our breaths as the sound of heavy footsteps approached.
Kather
