After leaving Athena, I made my way back to our private suite. The sun was just beginning to dip below the horizon, casting a deep crimson and gold glow through the tall archways. Inside, the pack cook was putting the final touches on our evening meal, adjusting the silver lids over hot serving platters set upon the small dining table near the balcony.
"Thank you, Maria. I can take it from here," I said with a warm smile, stepping in to help her set down the crystal water carafes and light the central candles.
She bowed respectfully and slipped out, leaving the room quiet and fragrant with the rich scent of herbs and roasted meats. I didn't have long to wait—barely five minutes after the heavy wooden door clicked shut, I heard the familiar sound of heavy footsteps in the corridor.
Demet
