13

Adversary

The sun was up, and so was Lupa. The early morning light filtered through the narrow window of the hidden ground floor basement, casting a warm, golden glow across the room. Outside, the weather was perfect—clear skies with a gentle breeze that rustled the leaves and brought in the fresh scent of pine and earth.

Lupa stretched, feeling the softness of the sheets beneath her. She swung her legs over the side of the bed, her bare feet touching the cool wooden floor. Standing at 5’4”, Lupa moved with a grace that belied her strength. Her brown hair, slightly tousled from sleep, framed her face in soft waves, catching the light and hinting at the reddish undertones that came alive in the sunlight. Her silver eyes, striking and unusual, reflected the room’s dim light, adding an ethereal quality to her gaze.

Tara had prepared the room meticulously, ensuring Lupa had everything she needed. The small but cozy space was well-furnished, with a comfortable bed, a wooden dresser, and a