The bearded man stiffened, and the men around him squirmed, exchanging weighted glances.
“There is . . . trouble in our village,” Syed hedged. “Some of our people are sick. It would be wise for you to pass by.”
“Our captain is a skilled Healer,” Heather spoke up. “He healed one of your women last night. She’d fallen and was near death. Perhaps he can bring relief to your village.” Heather’s voice rang with a sincerity few would sense was false. Damion would have silenced him—violently—had it not served his purposes. Clearly Meera had confessed something of her story to Heather the night before.
“Meera!” Damion called to the woman who hid herself behind his men. “Come forward, woman. Show them you are well. They must have been concerned when you didn’t return last night. The wolves were
