Zagreus clenched his teeth and narrowed his eyes, a silent challenge to the god of thunder. His hands balled into fists, and he stood rooted to the ground, even as sparks of electricity swirled around Zeus. His heart pounded in his chest, but he kept his gaze firm, determined to defend the woman he loved and their unborn child.
"I will not release her," he said firmly, his voice low and steady. "Not when I know what her fate will be if I do."
Zeus's eyes flashed with anger, and he raised his hand, preparing to strike. "You leave me no choice," he snarled.
The air in the clearing thickened as Zagreus prepared to launch his attack, and then a powerful light flooded the space. He reflexively threw an arm up, shielding his eyes while using his other arm to pull Alessia tightly against him. He felt her body tense as they both stared in amazement at the source of the light.
