Chloe’s pov
I carried the heavy lantern in one hand, the iron handle cold against my palm as Ray and I picked our way down the narrow dirt path leading into the western border valley.
The wind blew down from the ridge, carrying the sharp scent of damp pine and wet earth. Overhead, the canopy grew thicker, blocking out what little starlight cut through the clouds.
"Luna, please," Ray whispered, her voice tight as she clutched her heavy wool shawl around her shoulders. Her eyes darted toward the shadows on either side of the path. "We've passed the outer edge of the western orchard. The valley floor is rogue territory in all but name. If the Alpha's scouts find us out here—"
"They won't find us because we're picking seeds and turning right back," I said, keeping my voice low and steady.
