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The Cliff's Edge

The death of Gregory Greaves had caused an immediate stir in the circles Thomas Greaves frequented, yet the whirlwind of suspicion subsided after a week. Despite the initial scrutiny, Athena's calculated strikes had left no solid evidence pointing to her. The media and authorities were left to ponder over the mysterious death of a young man with a promising future. For Athena, it was a matter of patience and precision. The time had come to focus on the next target-Michael Greaves, the eldest son and a powerful businessman in his father's empire.

Michael was a man of influence, running one of Thomas's largest companies with a firm hand. His life was characterized by high-profile meetings, corporate functions, and a general air of invulnerability. To reach him, Athena would need to exploit his routine, creating a plan that took into account his elevated status and the high security surrounding him.

For days, Athena studied Michael's schedule, noting his habits and the places he frequented. He was a creature of habit, and his movements were methodically predictable once she had pieced together his routine. Her patience was tested, but she remained focused. She knew that any slip could jeopardize the entire plan.

Michael's life was a series of public appearances and private business meetings, but Athena discovered one aspect that could be exploited-a weekend retreat he often took to unwind, a solitary retreat to a cliffside property overlooking a remote bay. It was the perfect location for her next move, isolated and with a breathtaking view that would serve as an effective backdrop for her plan.

As the day of the strike approached, Athena made her preparations with meticulous care. She had arranged to visit the retreat under the guise of a landscape photographer, a role that allowed her access to the scenic property and provided a plausible cover for her presence. Her plan was to lure Michael to a secluded part of the cliff, a place where the drop was sheer and unforgiving.

On the appointed day, Athena arrived at the retreat under the guise of a professional. She carried a camera, her attire casual yet functional for her role. The sun was setting, casting a golden hue over the cliffside and the bay below. It was a picturesque scene, but Athena's mind was solely focused on the task at hand.

Michael arrived at the retreat just after noon, his arrival marked by the usual entourage of bodyguards and staff. Athena blended into the background, positioning herself as a harmless photographer capturing the beauty of the landscape. She observed Michael's movements, noting his relaxed demeanor as he enjoyed the tranquility of the retreat.

By late afternoon, Michael decided to take a walk along the cliff's edge, a path that Athena had prepared for her plan. She approached him casually, her demeanor respectful and unassuming.

"Mr. Greaves," Athena called out, her voice carrying over the breeze. "I'm here to get some photos of the sunset. I hope I'm not intruding."

Michael turned, his gaze settling on her with mild curiosity. "Not at all. It's a beautiful spot. What are you photographing?"

"The cliffside," Athena replied, gesturing towards the edge. "The light at this time of day is perfect for capturing the dramatic landscape."

Michael nodded, his interest piqued. "I suppose I'll enjoy the view myself. Do your thing."

As Michael wandered closer to the edge of the cliff, Athena followed discreetly, maintaining a respectful distance. The sun was beginning its descent, casting long shadows and painting the sky in hues of red and orange. It was a stunning scene, but Athena's focus remained unwavering.

When the moment was right, Athena maneuvered herself into position. She engaged Michael in casual conversation, making him feel at ease. Her words were carefully chosen, guiding him towards the most precarious part of the cliff. The conversation was light and unassuming, designed to keep his attention away from her true intentions.

As they approached the edge, Athena subtly positioned herself between Michael and the cliff face. The wind was strong, and the sound of crashing waves below created a dramatic backdrop. She continued to talk, drawing Michael's focus as she subtly maneuvered him closer to the edge.

Without warning, Athena made her move. She expertly used the element of surprise, pushing Michael with a sudden, forceful shove. He lost his balance, arms flailing as he teetered on the edge. The sheer drop below ensured there was no chance of survival.

Michael's eyes widened in shock and fear as he fell, his scream swallowed by the roar of the wind and the crashing waves. Athena watched with a detached calm, knowing that this was a necessary part of their retribution.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the cliff in shadow, Athena collected her equipment and made her way back to her vehicle. She left the retreat, her mind already shifting to the next steps in their plan. The path of vengeance was drawing closer to its climax, and she was prepared to see it through to the end.

With Michael's death, Thomas Greaves had lost another pillar of his empire. Athena knew that the final blow was approaching, and she would ensure that each move brought them closer to achieving their ultimate goal. The fortress awaited her return, a place of power and contemplation as she prepared for the concluding chapter of their retribution.