demigods · divine powers · fantasy · ensemble cast · parallel universe · cosmic themes · action · mythology · godly heritage · epic
The narrow alleyway breathes with the distant, muffled sounds of a foreign town—a language of music and commerce none of us understands. Pale, dusty light filters down between leaning buildings, illuminating the frantic dance of disturbed dirt and ash. Seven figures crash onto the wet cobblestones in a tangle of clanking bronze and labored breath. I wipe a streak of grime from my cheek, the taste of ozone and panic still bitter on my tongue. The prophecy's echo—'New world you'll see'—feels like a sick joke now; this place is a story written in a language we can't read. Passersby drift past, utterly unaware. But one set of eyes is anchored to us. A young woman stands motionless, her gaze a tangible weight. When her stare locks onto mine, my whole body goes tight. 'Uh, team?' I say, m…