Fangs and Fennel(90)

Ernie high-fived me, snapping me out of my musings, and my yaya kissed my cheek. Everyone was happy. But I could barely keep a smile on my face. I knew Hera wasn’t done with me—our battle was far from over. There was a Hydra out there somewhere, working with a new and even deadlier hero in an effort to finally take me down.

Instead of fear, though, determination filled me. I stood straight and stared into the cameras. Words rose up in me, words that felt right and true, even if they were not something I would have ever said before.

“My name is Alena Budrene, and I am a Drakaina. I will protect this city, my family, and my friends from all who would do them harm. Let them come.” I smiled and let my fangs slowly drop. “I will stop them.”