ELLIE’S POV
Moonlight slanted through my window again, but this time, I didn’t lie awake. I rose, boots silent on cold stone, and wrapped my scarf as though it might shield me from the night’s truths.
I crept down the corridor, walking past closed doors and sleeping figures until I reached the healer’s hut. The soft glow from inside drifted out through the cracks, and I paused. My heart hammered.
I knocked twice, soft as a frightened heartbeat.
A voice whispered: “It’s open, you can come in.”
I stepped inside.
Maela looked up, surprise in her gaze. The fire lit room smelled of salves and herbs.
“Ellie?” she asked, alarmed.
I didn’t answer. I just crossed to where the low bench held curative jars and laid my hand flat on the wood.
“I…” I faltered.
She stood, and approached me. “Wh
