Chapter Twenty-Nine
Íkelos' SpyAlana strode through the village, her head held high, her shoulders back as she passed the modest dwellings. Their homes were simple, no more or less than what was required. The faint earthy scent of the hide tanner's oils mingled with ripened fruits from the nearby orchard. She walked with confidence as those inside their homes looked out in awe, gathering in doorways and exchanging almost silent whispers. Her auburn hair was secured in a low ponytail, the shorter strands clinging to her neck giving the impression of a fringe that had long grown out.
The training with the Earth Spirit had taken her the longest yet and had presented the most difficult challenges. There had been a time when doubt had crept in, when she wondered if she could truly do the thi
