CHAPTER 9DEATH SHIVERS
A HIDDEN PAIN LURKED in Aithein’s chest. He gritted his teeth to quell the burn. It wasn’t failure. It wasn’t betrayal. It was something that he took responsibility for, the shame of not being able to see the truth of those around him. The familiar sounds of the forest were gone, replaced by the clank of metal and wood, and of boots stomping.
Aithein’s sweat-soaked hair dampened his spirits each time it struck his brow or clung to his neck. His body was sore and sluggish. The only improvement was the quality of air as the troupe trekked into the southeastern wilderness towards the groves of the faelen tree.
A warm, calloused hand gripped the back of Aithein’s neck, its source as unlikely as the night’s events.
Neilath’s eyes burned with confidence. “Look at me, m
