“Then stay close, little wolf,” I warn, bracing myself for what comes next.
I thrust my uninjured arm outward, sending a massive wave of magic in all directions. The air ripples with power, trees bending as if caught in a mighty wind. I hear startled cries from the forest—two, maybe three voices.
“Move. Now.” My voice is strained. Using magic on this scale drains me rapidly, especially when I’m injured. “They’re immobilized, but not for long.”
Daciana doesn’t hesitate. She transforms into a tawny brown wolf, smaller than me but quick and agile. She nudges my leg, whining urgently.
“I can’t shift with this wound,” I say, swaying slightly. “The arrow—”
She shifts back to human form in an instant.
“Then I’ll help you walk,” she says, purpose set in her jaw. “Put your arm around my shoul
