Bonus Chapter

Cyrus

what was she doing here alone in the dark alley? does she not know how dangerous this is?

Rage burned inside me as I caught sight of her surrounded by the thugs.

My body moved before my mind could fully comprehend the situation.

'She was in danger.' That is the only thought in my mind, my heart pounded as I moved, my eyes glowing with burning fire.

The girl who was tiny, and looks so frail was facing three men on her own. She must be so afraid.

She was not even moving. She must be in shock.

What would have happened to her if I hadn't shown up? Just the thought made My hands shake, in barely controlled anger.

Without a second thought, I rushed forward, my cloak billowing behind me like the wings of an avenging angel.

I stood in the entrance of the alley, the men paused when they saw me. The expressions of fear on their faces.

They are going to die in my hands today.

Arianna

I was panicking internally. Did he see me threatening them?

What if he complains to the king?

I bit my lip, worried about what will Artemis say when she finds out about this.

how did he even find me?

I heard the thugs footsteps as they ran away at the sight of him.

The sound of sword unsheathing filled the silent alley. Time seemed to halt, and a shiver ran down my spine as I beheld him, his presence commanding and ominous, like the very embodiment of death itself.

I am so dead.

I backed away as he moved toward me,

He raised his arm, "don't be afraid, it's me. I am here to save you," he said.

I stopped as I blinked back in surprise.

What did he just say?

He was here to save me?

Then it clicked.

He thought that they were threatening me and came here to save me?

I don't know whether to be impressed or angry.

Does he think I can't defend myself?

As he stepped forward, I quickly hid the sack of gold I had just robbed from them.

I guess it is better that he was underestimating me. Or I could be in a big trouble.

He was close enough for me to see his face.

His features, chiseled and sharp, were illuminated by the dim glow. A cascade of white hair framed his face, falling in untamed waves, adding to his enigmatic allure.

His piercing eyes held a glint of danger, they roamed the length of me, and I felt a shiver run down my spine as he looked at me.

I realized he was making sure that I was not hurt.

He stood tall and imposing, a stoic guardian cloaked in darkness.

I wanted to laugh at this situation. He was here to save me.

The same person who had kidnapped me not days ago, was here to protect me.

The irony of the situation was not lost on me.