---- light Ihad.


    "Dont think you re getting out of this," I looked up weakly, barely focusing on the vicious eyes of the man from the tavern.


    Before I could react, he grabbed my head and mmed his knee into my face.


    The sickening crunch of my broken nose, the rush of blood, the searing painthen nothing.


    I cked out, left at their mercy.


    I wasnt as strong as I thought.


    ook The first thing I heard was the creaking of wagon wheels.


    My mind buzzed, and I felt disoriented.


    The ground beneath me vibrated with the movement of the road.


    "Celine, were in a sorcerer caravan.


    They havent done anything to us yet I dont know what they re nning," my wolf spoke, updating me.


    Then, something wet touched my face, cleaning it.


    I tensed, keeping my eyes shut, calcting my chances of defending myself.


    "Shes cleaning our wounds.


    Her scent is familiar.


    I think shes that witch we once saved.


    What was her name?" "La...2" I finally opened my eyes, my eyelids feeling like they weighed aton.


    But I recognized the woman leaning over me, wiping the blood from my wounds.


    "Celine! Youre awake, thank the Goddess! When I saw them bring you in as a prisoner, I recognized you and spoke for you so they wouldnt put you with the ves," she said enthusiastically, squeezing my hand.


    ---- I tried to sit up, my wounds healing slowly.


    Without drinking blood, I had to rely solely on my werewolf abilities.


    "No, no, take it easy.


    You were badly injuredjust rest.


    Theres no danger.


    This is my carriage; Im part of the caravan," she said.


    I nced around, realizing I was lying on a narrow cot covered in furs.


    There were pots and a few chests, dresses hanging from the ceiling, anda small mirror swaying with the wagon''s movement along the dirt road.


    "Thank you, La.


    You saved me.


    Where are we going?" I asked ina low voice.


    La had been a cheerful girl that Quinn and I had saved when we were much younger.


    She had been attacked by werewolf men at the kingdoms borders, taken as a sex ve, and we freed her, sending her back to the Dark Realm.


    "We''re headed to the war camp of the sorcerers," she said, and I nodded in silence.


    I appreciated her help, but I had no interest in being caught up in their conflict.


    I just wanted to recover and continue my journey.


    Will you pass near the southern border?" "You want to return to your people, dont you?" she asked, and I nodded.


    I didnt like giving too many exnations.


    I didnt fully trust her, but I needed help right now.


    "Dont worry.


    Just stay quiet and hidden in my carriage.


    The sorcerers are on edge with the vampire issue right now.


    When we get close to your destination, I1l let you know so you can escape," she said in a whisper.


    I ---- thanked her sincerely.


    The caravan suddenly stopped.


    Outside, the mens voices rang out as they unloaded supplies to set up camp in the wilderness.


    "Tl go prepare your medicine..." "La, you dont have to bother.


    Ill heal on my own..." I took her hand, but she just patted mine gently, smiling.


    "You and your brother saved me.


    I owe you my life.


    I wont ask too many questions about your nsI understand you have your reasons.


    But believe me, Celine, I only want to help and repay your kindness." Inodded andy back on the cot, though my wolf ears remained alert.


    I wanted to believe that gratitude still existed in some people''s hearts.


    sek NARRATOR As La stepped out of the carriage, she nced back to check if Celine was watching.