CAPTURED

Each phrase of the successor's triumphant, silky voice broke through the forest's silence. With their weapons shining in the dim moonlight, his troops surrounded us. I was certain they could hear my heart beating so loudly in my chest.

"End of the line," he said again, his icy gaze meeting me.

Marcus was standing in front of me with his knife solid and poised, but even his assurance didn't seem to be enough to keep us safe from the circle that was closing in on us.

With a sly smile, the successor approached slowly. Olivia, you've been a pain in my side for far too long. Are you aware of the extent of the harm you have caused? Even if Neil's empire is gone, the damage you've caused... He walked away, mockingly shaking his head. It's amazing. I will grant you that.

I tried to swallow my panic by clenching my hands. "You're mistaken if you believe that killing me will solve your problems," I stated in a shaky yet defiant voice.