Chapter 10

Ardolf and Athena walked back to their inn tired and weak after defeating the men sent by Luka to bring them down. They were both battered and bruised, but relieved that they had survived. As they walked back to their secret inn, Athena turned to Ardolf and said, "You know, killing those men will send a message to Luka. He won't stop until he hunts us down and kills us."

Ardolf paused for a moment and looked at Athena. He could see the concern in her eyes, and he knew that she was right.

"I know," Ardolf replied, "but we had no choice. They were going to attack us, and we had to defend ourselves."

"I'll always protect you, Athena. You can count on me," Ardolf replied, putting his arm around her.

Luka was a dangerous man, and he wouldn't rest until he had eliminated the threat that Ardolf and Athena posed to him.

Athena nodded, "I understand that, but we have to be careful. We don't know who else Luka has working for him, and we don't want to be caught off guard."

Ardolf agreed, "You