#Chapter 266 Path Forward

Charles "Eva?" Astarte's shocked whisper hung in the air. My own gaze darted between Astarte and her daughter then to Lucian. His face was etched with a mixture of concern and apprehension. Eva hesitantly stepped into the room with Ryon by her side. “Eva?” Astarte rasped again. "That's... That's not possible." She narrowed her eyes. "Who are you, imposter?" Eva snarled, flashing her fangs. Her eyes glinted. "Who the hell are you calling an imposter, lady?" "How dare you bring this--" "Astarte," Lucian said, holding up a hand. "Just calm down." "Don't tell me to calm down!" Astarte shrieked, stepping between Eva and the pod. I pulled Grace back behind me as darkness started to gather around her. Eva darted forward, putting herself between Ryon and Astarte. "You'd better calm down, lady, or--" She never finished the sentence. Astarte lunged forward, but before she could reach Eva, a shimmering barrier materialized in the air, stopping her dead in her tracks. Astarte broke thr