Ch. 128 Augustus

Augustus' P.O.V.

Ares traveled us all back to the center of the maze, where just an hour before we had been having fun. That was the longest and most intense hour of my life. I'm not sure what happened those last few minutes of the battle. When things got dark we leaned into each other, and it unlocked something inside of Ares that we were all able to tap into. The feeling still lingered inside me, strengthening me with power and light.

I scanned the area for Nova, but couldn't see her anywhere. She must have sensed me as a water portal opened before us, and Nova jumped out with Manny close behind.

"I'm sorry I couldn't teleport you all out. I was only able to get Nova because we're mated. The dark forest hates relinquishing its prey," Manny explained with a guilty expression.

"Thank you for rescuing her," I said, staring at Nova like she was my salvation. She's the only reason I live and breathe.

She ran towards me, wrapping her arms around my neck. She sobbed into my chest, let