(Kiara)
I woke when Nyra warned me someone was nearby. My eyes opened, and I stayed where I was while listening for movement. Morning had already arrived, though the trees blocked much of the sunlight. I reached for my bag and waited.
‘Two wolves,’ Nyra said. ‘Not Blackridge.’ She could tell from their scent.
That didn't mean they were safe. I got to my feet and looked for somewhere I could move without being seen. Before I made it far, a man stepped from between the trees ahead of me. Another appeared several feet behind him.
Neither man came closer. They wore clothes marked with a symbol I didn't recognize, and both watched me carefully. I knew I had probably crossed into territory belonging to another pack. Running now could make things worse.
"Who are you?" the first man asked. "A
