Eleanor trailed behind Ares, her eyes focused on his back and the massive black snake coiled around his neck. Despite her efforts to shake off her fear, it lingered, causing her to tremble.
She pursed her lips, rubbing her temples slowly as Nyx shifted, his head swiveling to face Ares directly. The snake darted out his tongue, making her yelp and freeze in her tracks.
Ares' laughter echoed, as if Nyx had shared a private joke, but he soon sobered, turning to glance at her for the seventh time since they began walking. "Walk by my side, Little Bird," he repeated, his voice gentle and reassuring. "He won't hurt you."
Eleanor took a step back, forcing herself to look away from the intimidating snake. She shook her head. "No."
Ares sighed and turned away, continuing his walk. Eleanor followed him at a slow pace.
"Return to Kaito," Ares instructed Nyx. "I'm safe here."
But the snake hissed in displeasure, reluctant to leave.
