HOMEBOUND

Kaida's eyes locked onto Tristan's, a silent warning to be ready. She drew a small dagger from her belt, her movements swift and silent. Tristan's heart raced as he followed her example, his senses on high alert.

The footsteps grew louder, and soon a figure emerged from the trees. It was a woman with piercing green eyes and long, flowing hair the color of night. She moved with a grace that belied her deadly intentions.

"Ah, Kaida," the woman said, her voice dripping with malice. "I've been waiting for you. And you've brought a fresh meat right to me."

Kaida stood her ground, her dagger at the ready. "You'll have to go through me first, Eira."

Eira sneered, her eyes flashing with anger. "I'm shaking in my paws."

With a swift motion, Eira drew her own dagger, and the two women circled each other, their eyes locked in a fierce stare. Tristan watched, frozen in fear, as the standoff unfolded before him. He knew he had to act, but his legs seemed rooted to the spot.

And then, just as sudde