Fiona's POV
Everything hurt.
Pain gnawed at the edges of my body — sharp, hot, constant. It throbbed beneath my skin, wrapped around every limb, pressing into my ribs like iron claws. I couldn't move. Couldn't lift a finger or crack open my eyes. But I could feel it.
The earth was cold beneath me. The air is warmer. Thick with unfamiliar scents. Herbs. Firewood. Wolves.
My heart stumbled in my chest.
Where am I?
My mind was stuck somewhere in between — floating in a haze. Consciousness teased me, brushing close before pulling away. Every time I tried to claw toward it, the weight dragged me back under.
Something warm touched my forehead. Soft. Gentle. A cloth, maybe. Fingers brushing damp strands of hair from my face. The scent of lavender lingered on the touch.
Not a threat.
I wa
