Athena had always been resourceful, and in this desperate situation, she had utilized one of her most unique abilities—splitting the cells of her body to create an imperfect double of herself.
The copy were far from flawless, distorted and grotesque in appearance, but they served their purpose. For each time she charged the Cerberus, blazing with the full intensity of her phoenix powers, her real intent had been to distract the monstrous guardian.
Every attack, every revival, was designed to keep its focus entirely on her.
The Cerberus, with its three towering heads, had become accustomed to this relentless assault. It had no reason to suspect that anything was amiss.
Each time Athena charged, she radiated power, ensuring the beast's attention was locked onto her. The Cerberus, so intent on her blazing figure, failed to notice the small, twisted double that had slipped past its enormous form and headed toward the pool.
