Adira’s POV
As I ran, the night air felt chilly on my skin, and I was breathing in sharp gasps. Even though my legs hurt, I continued. I was unable to stop. I was being pursued by Seraphina's army, and there would be no leniency if they captured me.
With my heart thumping in my ears, I forced my way through the thick forest. I hardly noticed the branches scratching at my arms. I could hear the howls of wolves, my old pack, in the distance behind me. The thought caused a terrible twist in my gut. I used to refer to them as family. They wanted me dead now.
My foot hooked on a root as I staggered forward, sending me crashing down a rough slope. Pain shot through my shoulder as I hit the ground hard, but I suppressed a scream. I had no money to make a noise.
I forced myself to focus by bli
