Athena gritted her teeth as she struggled to hold back Aurianna's blade. Sparks flew as their weapons locked, but Aurianna's strength was overwhelming, pushing Athena back step by step.
"Mother!" a loud voice called from nearby. It was a young girl wearing a luxurious dress who bore a striking resemblance to Athena, but looked more innocent. Her brown skin glowed under the moonlight, and her long black hair framed her face, followed by her piercing blue eyes.
"Hitoria!" Athena yelled in a panicked voice, her eyes trembling as her focus shattered.
"Oh, so a heartless woman like you—who profits from the slave trade—has children," Aurianna said with an evil grin. The grin alone sent shivers down Athena's spine.
"Shit!" Athena cursed under her breath, her composure crumbling before she managed to distance herself from Aurianna. "Get her away from here, quickly. Do you want to foolishly die?!" she bellowed at the two bodyguards standing near Hitoria.
