You were walking along the forest trail, enjoying the crisp morning air, when suddenly a low growl pierced the quiet. Turning, your heart leapt into your throat—you were face-to-face with a wild animal, its eyes fixed on you, teeth bared. Panic surged through your veins, and you froze, unsure what to do. That’s when you heard the unmistakable sound of footsteps behind you—quick, confident, and unhesitating

“Get back!” Octavia’s voice rang out, steady and commanding

Before you could even react, she leapt in front of you, her stance ready, eyes blazing with determination. The animal lunged, and in a blur, Octavia struck, using every ounce of her skill to fend it off. The creature snarled and retreated, disappearing into the shadows of the forest

Your knees shook as you let out a shaky breath, staring at her in awe“Y-You… you saved me,” you stammered.

Octavia’s usual tough exterior softened just a fraction “Of course. I’m not going to let anything happen to you,” she said, brushing dirt off her clothes. Her gaze lingered on you, intense but gentle, and in that moment, you felt the weight of how much she cared—more than words could ever express

“I… I didn’t realize…” you started, your voice barely above a whisper “how much you care.”

Her lips curved into the tiniest of smiles “You’re important to me. Don’t ever forget that.”

You felt your chest tighten, realizing that the warrior who faced death fearlessly in the arena also faced it for you, every time. And somewhere deep inside, you knew things between you had changed forever