Ovelia's POV
A massive, bright orange sphere of fire hurtled toward us, its heat radiating like a miniature sun. My body froze, my breath caught in my throat, and my legs refused to move. Fear gripped me, paralyzing every muscle in my body. I thought this was the end.
Suddenly, strong arms wrapped around me, lifting me off the ground. Ace moved with lightning speed, dodging the fiery sphere just as it exploded behind us, sending a wave of heat and debris in every direction. Ann, Ray, and Philip also scattered, narrowly avoiding the blast. The forest around us crackled and hissed as flames licked at the dry leaves and branches.
"Damn it! They know our location," Ace growled, his voice tight with frustration as he set me down gently. His silver eyes flickered with anger, but his touch remained careful, almost tender.
