The arrival of dawn heralded a tight knot that sat deep in Nia’s stomach, threatening to make her puke. She had spent the night wrestling with her thoughts, replaying her encounter with the shaman and the impromptu promise she made. She had also rehearsed her words over and over as Elena needed to be convinced of Kane’s innocence. Dressing quickly, Nia chose her clothes with care, opting for a simple yet sturdy outfit that would allow her to move freely. As she made her way down the hallway, the sounds of the pack waking up filled the air—children laughing, adults preparing breakfast and the distant sounds of warriors sparring outside. Each sound was a reminder of what was at stake; Kane’s life hanging in the balance.
The parchment from the shaman, now tucked safely in her pocket, felt li
