During the Seven Years

Chapter 13

As I walk into the mountains, the cold wind intensifies, biting at my skin and seeping through my clothes like icy fingers. I wrap my arms around myself, shivering uncontrollably, my teeth beginning to chatter. I didn't think it would be this bad! What should I do? Panic grips me as I glance around, the towering peaks casting long shadows that loom ominously in the fading light.

Before I can devise a plan, Virgo materializes before me, her expression determined yet gentle. In her hands, she holds winter gear that looks almost magical against the stark, white backdrop: a pink and white winter coat, sturdy boots, fluffy gloves, and a snug hat. My eyes widen in surprise as she hurriedly helps me into the coat, the soft fabric wrapping me in warmth. I quickly kick off my tennis shoes and slide into the boots, grateful for their insulation against the frigid ground. After pulling on the gloves and tugging the hat down over my ears, I can finally feel some relief from the relentless cold.

I shoot her a warm smile, my heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you so much, Virgo."

"Anytime, Princess." She nods in my direction, her eyes shining with affection. "Big Brother told me that you would need warmer clothes and wanted me to assist you right away." Her loyalty comforts me. Just then, she pulls out a sturdy rope, its purpose evident. "Since that's resolved, is it punishment time?"

"No, Vir—"

Suddenly, the sound of heavy footsteps reverberates through the snowy landscape, sending a jolt of alarm through me. My eyes flash dangerously as I cautiously glance in that direction. Five hulking Vulcans stand there, their broad chests heaving as they bang their fists against them. I clench my fists in desperation. This is playing out exactly like my dream! First, the cold, and now the Vulcans.

"Princess, we're surrounded," Virgo says, her tone grave.

My heart races. "What!?"

"There are fifty Vulcans around us," she points out, her expression serious. I scrunch my brows, the weight of dread settling over me. What do I do now? "Do you want me to help you escape?" she asks, a hint of urgency in her voice. But I can't let fear dictate my actions.

I purse my lips, a newfound determination bubbling up in my stomach. Even though we're completely surrounded, I refuse to give up. The last thing I would want to do is fail this mission.

"Virgo, you mentioned there's fifty of them," I say in a strangely calm tone, my heart pounding. "How accurate is that statement?" I meet her gaze, searching for confidence in her response.

"I'm sure, Princess, but—"

"Okay." I nod, gripping my whip tightly as I prepare to face the impending battle. "We won't be able to defeat them with brute force, but if you can dig through the ground and create traps, we can fight off the Vulcans."

"I understand. Please be careful, Princess."

I shoot her a warm smile, feeling a bond of trust strengthen between us. I know this is our only chance. I watch as she begins to dig into the snow, her hands deftly creating a series of traps beneath the surface.

With a deep breath, I swing my whip, sending it whirling toward two approaching Vulcans. They crash to the ground with a satisfying thud. But even as I knock them down, I can see more charging at me from all sides, their growls echoing in the cold air. I backflip into the air, narrowly escaping their grasp. There's no doubt that I'm outnumbered, but I need to keep fighting.

I kick one Vulcan into three more, the impact resonating through the air, before using my whip to toss another one aside. As six more charge from behind, I roll to the side, narrowly avoiding their attacks. I struggle to catch my breath, but just as I do, a punch lands squarely in my stomach, sending pain radiating through me. This isn't fair! How am I supposed to win? I can't do this alone.