The salt air hits your lungs like cold iron. Every breath feels like scratches and a pit in your stomach. You did not plan to run this way. The coastal path is long and exposed, but the mountains behind lie memories of Persian scouts. Here, at least, you can see what lies in front of you. Your old, worn sandals slapping against the sand and rock start creating blisters along the edges of your feet. Behind you sits the battlefield where many died for the Greek's victory.
Each time your foot strikes up against the ground, it causes shock and pain to run through your legs. You’ve been running longer and farther than you ever thought you could go.
In front of you lies the path to Athens and the great news of the Persians defeat.
However, the news has not yet reached your people. They do not know they are safe.
You will yourself forward. You keep running.
