Chapter One ~ Kael

The wind shifted. The previously icy breeze in the mountains, warmed by the afternoon sun, transformed into a warm gust. This change always conveyed more to Kael than words ever could. As the wind wrapped around him, he could feel its gentle pressure against his skin, as if nature itself was whispering secrets. On this occasion, it brought an unexpected element—a complex aroma sharp with cedar and loam, interspersed with faint traces of smoke as if from a long-extinguished fire, all blending seamlessly. The scent conjured images of dense forests and ancient hearths, tickling his nose with their earthy richness. Beneath these layers was a distinctly feminine scent, unfamiliar to him, and one he immediately disliked due to its novelty. The fragrance had notes of fresh citrus mingled with lavender, infusing a bright yet soothing harmony that added a mysterious allure Kael found unsettling. He instinctively distrusted unknowns, regardless of how pleasant they might be, and this scent, with its strange mix of the familiar and unfamiliar, only heightened his wariness.

Kael abruptly halted on a high ridge overlooking the forest basin, displacing some stones with his bare feet. The sunlight reflected off the foliage below, resembling emeralds of various hues, which had brought him peace since his arrival here at the age of 17 with his twin brother. The dense canopy formed a mosaic of greens that danced with the light breeze, creating a serene yet vibrant atmosphere. Birds chirped intermittently, adding a symphony of sounds to the picturesque view.

Narrowing his silver eyes with focus, Kael needed to find the source of this new scent. His muscles tensed subtly, reflecting years of honed instincts. Kain, trailing half a step behind, immediately perceived the change in Kael’s demeanor and silently positioned himself beside his brother, turning to face the same direction. Their bond was almost telepathic, each movement synchronized without utterance indicating a deep bond born of experience.

The sky above them held streaks of orange and purple, indicating the nearing dusk and the closing of summer with the early arrival of dusk increasing daily. They consistently assumed their kischyu forms when the air was cool to patrol the borders of their territory—relying solely on instinct—a principle that Kael had come to prioritize above all else. In their kischyu guise, Kael and Kain could move with stealth and agility, blending seamlessly into their surroundings.

The unfamiliar aroma carried a complexity that set it apart from typical scents; it was neither prey nor familiar. Amongst the myriad of smells, the unmistakable presence of kischyus emerged, signaling even more caution. He has seen first hand kischyus’ capacity for harm and prejudice against those who deviate from their norm. The enticing nature of the smell demanded a rigorous evaluation. Aware of kischyuity’s unpredictable threat, his resolve to protect his pack was unwavering and fierce. They came first; always, the honor and the curse of being an Alpha. Everything a double edged sword though he would not change.

He turned his head, his eyes meticulously scanning the terrain below, aware that his twin was doing the same. Then, he saw her—a figure moving cautiously between the trees far below, nearly obscured by the fading light of dusk. Her movements were deliberate and careful, indicative of someone trained to disappear if startled. Despite the distance, he could discern that she was experiencing fear—not the fear of prey, but the fear of being hunted or haunted. There was something unusual about this woman.

“Kain, observe the falls. This woman’s movements are contradictory. Access to those falls should be limited to individuals with supernatural blood due to the treacherous nature of the path.”

Kael’s wolf stirred beneath his skin, claws itching behind his calm.

“She doesn’t smell like threat,” Kain murmured, stepping beside him. “Though she does carry secrets that much is certain. How do you think a kischyu got here?”

“Secrets can be fatal,” Kael stated in a calm and detached manner, his voice barely more than a murmur against the rustling leaves. The firelight flickered, casting shadows that danced on his rugged face, hinting at unspoken tales. “Occasionally, kischyus find their way here, typically those who are experienced woodsmen who have lost their bearings.” His eyes narrowed as he scrutinized the newcomer.

She moves as though she knows her path, yet…” Kael tilted his head slightly, crouching down to observe with the grace of a seasoned hunter. The faint scent of pine and damp earth filled the air, grounding him in the forest’s embrace. “She does not appear familiar with the woods. Her steps lack the surety of one who has wandered these trails before though it seems she has a destination in mind, such contradictions in this kischyu, brother.”

“From this distance, I cannot be certain, but she is not carrying any equipment that would be useful, particularly if she has come from the city, it is at least a two hour walk and it will be dark in three maybe four hours.” He sighed, noting the absence of essential gear—a compass, sturdy boots, perhaps a canteen of water. Every choice spoke of naivety and unpreparedness. A city dweller lost in the wilderness was a precarious situation, fraught with hidden dangers and unforeseen challenges.

What concerned him more than her presence was the way his body had automatically adjusted to her—already tracked her without conscious effort. His pulse increased as soon as he detected her scent the first time, with protective instinct taking priority over normal caution, well attempting to that is. He did not trust her or his reaction, yet he did not want anyone else near her either except his twin. With a frown and a sense of frustration at the contradictions she caused within him, he looked at his brother. “We should get closer; let’s stay high for a better vantage point.”

They remained in the trees, observing quietly as they moved down and towards the waterfalls which were the most logical destination especially without fresh water to drink. Stupid girl, what the hell does she think she is doing out here. The entire time they move he is cursing her out in his mind, waiting to understand why someone like her would enter these woods so unprepared it doesn’t make sense.

Kael positioned himself on a sturdy pine branch, the coarse bark pressing into the arches of his bare feet. His well-worn black buckskin pants adhered closely to his muscular legs—softened by years of use yet resilient. His chest moved steadily, each muscle poised beneath weathered skin lightly touched by the forest air. Beside him, Kain mirrored the stance perfectly—they were nearly identical in appearance. Twins in every visible aspect: same defined jaws, same lean strength, same black hair pulled back. However, their eyes revealed their differences.

Kael’s eyes were characterised by their silver colour—penetrating, focused, and perpetually alert. These eyes had an intensity that seemed to scrutinise deeply anyone who made direct eye contact, leaving them feeling completely revealed. The silver hue of his irises would change with the light, generating an almost hypnotic and captivating effect. Resembling molten metal, the silver of his eyes shimmered fluidly, as though containing some ancient, mystical power. They mirrored not only the surroundings but also emotions, often displaying an uncanny calmness or a strong determination. When Kael entered a room, his gaze commanded attention, making people acutely aware that he observed every movement and breath. His eyes served as twin beacons, either guiding or passing judgment on those who encountered him. In daylight, they sparkled like diamonds under the sun’s rays, while at night, they took on a spectral glow that was both captivating and intimidating. These eyes offered insight into Kael’s determined spirit, showcasing his inner strength and unwavering resolve.

Kain’s eyes, though similar at first glance, exhibited notable differences upon closer examination. Both irises were monochromatic, with varying shades creating a subdued shadow where color once existed. One eye retained traces of an extremely pale icy blue, almost appearing silver from a distance. His gaze seemed to imply the ability to perceive multiple dimensions simultaneously, comprehending layers of reality beyond the ordinary perception of most individuals. The mismatched irises emitted a cold aura, inducing a sensation of chills in those who encountered his stare.

Both pairs of eyes had an enigmatic and authoritative quality, casting a shadow of caution over those around him. Their gaze was sharp and penetrating, able to hold people in check with just a look. The combined presence of these eyes could draw attention and command respect without the need for words. Few dared to oppose or challenge the pair, their presence exerting a subtle yet powerful influence that permeated the atmosphere like an unspoken rule.

Their ability to remain still for extended periods, without so much as a twitch, added to the unsettling aura they projected. People often found themselves unnerved by this unwavering focus, feeling as though every action and thought was being scrutinised by an invisible force. Kael observed the impact their eyes had on both kischyus and supernaturals alike, noting how even the most confident individuals seemed to falter under their gaze. He found this dynamic intriguing, a testament to the power of non-verbal communication.

However, despite his fascination, Kael did not appreciate the idea of the woman being frightened by them. Just the idea as he watched stirred a protective instinct within him, making him more aware of the delicate balance between authority and intimidation even as he tried to push down the instinct that did not fit with what his brain knew to be fact. His reaction was not logical and in fact dangerous as far as he was concerned. They trusted no one else. Not with their past. Not with their future. The pack? Loyal. But even wolves could falter. Kael swept his gaze to his brother as he sees the woman through the trees approaching.

Below, the unidentified woman moved with an awareness that suggested she knew she was being observed—her movements were slow, vigilant, and she scanned the trees not with curiosity, but with evident fear. Kael felt his chest tighten. Her fear did not appear recent; it seemed ingrained in her behavior, as if it had become second nature. It was as though she wore it like armor, built up over years of enduring hardships. Despite this, there was an aura of innocence about her. Her brown eyes were deep and expressive, reminiscent of the profound tranquility one might experience when entering a forest and realizing the beauty of silence. This stood in stark contrast to the gaze of Kael and his twin. The shadows in her eyes disturbed him; they spoke of profound pain and loneliness. This was a look Kael and his brother often endeavoured to prevent in the eyes of women when they left their pack lands for hunting, delegating command to their beta or, if necessary, the third in command should the beta join the hunt.

 

“I am concerned,” Kain murmured, keeping his voice low. Without looking Kael knew Kain’s eyes tracked her just as intently. “She does not appear to be the threat. Observe her eyes and movements; there is something unusual.”

“That exacerbates the situation.” Kael’s voice was heavy yet very quiet, barely louder than a whisper of a spring breeze. Kael’s eyes narrowed. No stranger had ever triggered his instincts in this manner—not with desire, warning, or both simultaneously. Nonetheless, she did not evoke a sense of danger. Instead, she felt like an unresolved wound, which inexplicably resonated with the part of him he detested most: the protector hidden beneath the predator. Despite his wolf’s inclination to trust her, he remained cautious. The last time they got close to a woman due to their protective instinct was when they were 17, they had failed.

He turned to Kain. “Do you sense it as well?”

Kain responded with a measured breath, his eyes narrowing slightly as he focused inward. “Yes, I have not felt this strong of a reaction to a female to protect them since Opal. I am skeptical of it. There is an unease that lingers in the air. We need to keep our distance as well till we know who she is and why she is here.”

“Nor do I trust it, we will have to keep watch,” Kael replied, his tone becoming resolute, his gaze hardening with determination. “However, no action will be taken against her until we ascertain who she is hiding from and what threat they are to the pack. If she is a threat she will be dealt with like any other threat. None of the pack should know of her there though, there are way too many unknowns at play here, elements we must understand before making any rash decisions.”

The weight of responsibility pressed heavily on Kael’s shoulders, and not until he understood why the unfamiliar individual in the forest felt inexplicably significant to him and Kain would he find peace. The connection was elusive yet palpable, like a whisper on the wind that he couldn’t quite grasp but knew was there. It gnawed at his thoughts, urging him to delve deeper into the mystery that lay before them.

The concealed waterfall remained undisturbed and revered, largely forgotten by the majority. It was situated deep within the forest, accessible solely to those with a keen sense of direction, supernatural and the rare kischyu who has lost their way. Enveloped by towering ancient trees whose branches formed a thick canopy overhead, the area was dappled with patches of sunlight filtering through the leaves. Moss-covered rocks lined the path, while vibrant ferns and undergrowth flourished in the moist, cool air. The sound of trickling water could be heard, mingling with the symphony of bird calls and rustling foliage, creating a serene and mystical ambiance that seemed worlds away from civilization.

A woman appeared from the trees below, carefully surveying the forest. Her movements were a mix of practiced familiarity and occasional hesitation, indicating an experience with peril yet some uncertainty in her surroundings. At times, she moved with measured and deliberate steps, betraying a honed ability to navigate danger, while at other moments, a slight pause or misstep suggested a lapse or a brief unfamiliarity with this particular terrain.

He noticed her eyes darting from side to side, scanning each shadow and rustle among the undergrowth, sometimes lingering too long on certain spots as if second-guessing herself. The sunlight filtering through the canopy cast dappled patterns on her weathered clothing, suggesting she had spent much time navigating these woods. Every careful step she took seemed calculated, avoiding dry branches that might snap and alert any hidden threats, though there were fleeting moments where she stepped too close to a fragile twig, catching herself just in time.

As she moved closer, he could see the determination mixed with the fear they had noted earlier in her eyes also etched on her face, hinting at a past filled with challenges and survival instincts honed over countless encounters, yet it was also clear that no matter how skilled she was she had no experience in the woods.

“She checks her six too clean,” Kain observed, switching to their telepathic link as to not alert the woman. “She’s done this before. Perhaps not in the woods though from her movements.”

Kael remained silent, his alertness turning into a deeper focus. He watched her closely, noting everything but unable to look away. The sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting an ethereal glow on the scene. Leaves rustled gently, whispering secrets of the forest as she moved stealthily towards the waterfall, her steps light yet deliberate. Every motion spoke of her experience and yet lacked the feel of formal training, her senses finely tuned to detect any anomaly or threat which intrigued the brothers. Her presence seemed to blend seamlessly with the surroundings, making her appear almost like a shadow against the vibrant backdrop of nature, something was off with her and he couldn’t place it.

She unzipped her worn boots, with laces that displayed their age, knotted in some areas where they had broken. Kael noticed the sole’s condition and cringed at the lack of grip. She rolled up her black faded denim jeans, revealing a band of tarnished faint silver from old scaring around her ankle embedded in the skin so deeply. It evoked a vague memory from his past, one without detail just knowledge he had seen this at some point. She lowered herself over a ledge and sat on the flat stone shelf beside the waterfall’s basin, her long, dark hair flowing around her shoulders like shadows at dusk. She carefully immersed her delicate pale feet into the water. Her shoulders curved inward—not slouched, but guarded as if trying to hide. Her hands rested palms-down on the stone at her sides, providing a sense of grounding and support. To an observer, she might have appeared tranquil.

However, Kael perceived a quiet panic disguised as composure. He saw someone who was distrustful of silence but required it, nevertheless. Her gaze turned toward the water, unfocused and distant, suggesting a presence in the moment while her spirit seemed trapped elsewhere. At that moment, Kael discerned what was deeply concealed, almost perfectly masked: fear, accompanied by pain and tightly restrained fury behind a gentle exterior making him stiffen ever so slightly.

“She is not concealing herself from the world,” Kael whispered despite their using their mental pathway. “She is concealing her own identity.”

And this was not the first occurrence, this looked like lessons learned the hard way. Lessons she should not have had to learn. Kael clenched his jaw tightly in a barely restrained furry which made no sense as she is a stranger and kischyu.

“She does not emit the scent of prey,” Kain responded, his voice now subdued through their bond. “Her scent is reminiscent of fire that has forgotten its former ability to burn.”

Kael remained silent, deeming words unnecessary. He felt a shift within his chest, characterized not by sympathy or desire, but by an unmistakable sense of *recognition*. His mind raced through memories, each one flashing like a fragment of light in the darkness, yet none of this woman, he was certain of this.

He observed her closely. The way her eyes, pools of hidden depths, held secrets darker than the night itself. The faint tremble of her fingers suggested past battles, both internal and external. Her posture, though outwardly relaxed, masked a readiness to spring into action at any moment. The long dark sleeves and high collar of her thread bare top, the worn denim and boots, these told a story, each one a chapter in a book of survival and resilience. Despite the temperature being warm, her choice of attire suggested there was another reason for her clothing choices.

In the late afternoon light, he observed her lips part slightly as a stifled sob emerged, trembling with emotion. Her head drooped forward, her shoulders slumping in what appeared to be an act of utter defeat. The sheen of unshed tears glistened in her eyes. With a brief glance at Kain, it was evident that his disapproval of the gesture mirrored his own sentiments, the furrow in his brow deepening as he witnessed the scene unfold.

This enigmatic figure had cast a shadow over his certainty, and for the first time in a long while, Kael felt a flicker of vulnerability. He would have to tread carefully, guarding his heart even as he sought answers. For in this dance of shadows and secrets, only one could emerge unscathed. It seemed from his brother’s reactions the same might be said about him.

The wind shifted again—slight, but different. Kael didn’t move, nor did Kain. They understood the change without speaking. This skill had been instilled in them long before they found their pack and became the Alphas together, which is uncommon to say the least for two individuals. Observers readily understood the reason behind their partnership the moment they seen the twins, there was no doubt they were a team. Exile had turned them into weapons on their journey to this place they now call home. To the pack that had welcomed them with open arms when they were barely more then pups themselves.

Kael’s silver eyes narrowed as he lowered his shoulders into the branches, scanning the treeline across the basin. The woman remained at the water’s edge, her posture unchanged. This was notable because people usually maintain such stillness only when listening for potential threats from the surroundings, her feet unmoving in the water even.

“Her breathing pattern has altered,” Kain remarked to his twin. Kael observed it as well: a shallow inhalation, a tense set to her jaw, and the way her head turned, not towards a sound, but in anticipation. It was as if she was aware that someone or something might be nearby.

They were both familiar with the signs; she was tracking and listening for a potential threat. The acrid scent of fear emanated from her. Kain’s fingers brushed the bark beside him in a silent signal indicating “west”. Kael directed his gaze in that direction, but observed no movement or sound. Despite this, it was evident that something had drawn her attention and instilled fear in her. But what could it be?

“She isn’t imagining it,” Kael stated. “Someone has followed her before. I can detect an old, faint scent trail with the wind shift, to degraded to be able to use to track, but is that what she detected? There is no way, this makes no sense.”

The twins moved like synchronized shadows, their eyes scanning the surroundings, jaws clenched, and hearts steady. Their training was not derived from tutors or safe simulations; it came from survival. They were born into a world where sheer strength was insufficient – one had to be smarter than the strong as well. They maneuvered through the trees as a well-honed unit, without disturbing a single leaf. Her instinct for danger was apparent, thus they needed to investigate to ensure she was alone, one trespasser in their territory was enough for them.

Below before the twins could move more then a few steps through the trees, the woman stood suddenly, arms wrapped across herself like a shield. She didn’t run. But her body screamed readiness. Kael noted almost with amusement that she couldn’t be more then 5’4” until the scent of her fear increased, now thick enough he could have cut it with a knife. They both stopped their movement to watch her, something was scaring her badly and as she turned Kael caught the faintest shadow on her cheek as if it was bruised. Yet it had to be the shadows of the trees playing with his eyes, there was no way.

“Should we intervene?” Kain inquired.

Kael observed her for a moment longer. “No. She chose this place for solitude. Disrupting that would be more harmful than beneficial. Especially given her level of fear right now.”

“But if someone is pursuing her—”

Kael’s voice became cold and decisive. “They will encounter us first. Regardless of her identity, women are assured safety within our domain unless they present a significant threat.”

The two men stood on the edge of the clearing, concealed by the dense foliage. Kael’s eyes never left the woman as she moved through the forest with purpose, yet an underlying sadness seemed to accompany her every step. He knew all too well the weight of seeking refuge from unseen demons. This sanctuary had been kept untouched for such souls, a haven where one could find respite and perhaps, eventually, strength to face their battles. The guardians of this place had sworn an oath to protect those who came here, understanding the delicate balance between intervention and respect for one’s choice to heal in solitude and the pack had picked up that oath long ago.

Kael crouched lower on the branch they had stopped on, far enough away to not be seen but closer should there be need, shoulder brushing against Kain’s as both of them scanned the glade again—nose, eyes, gut—every sense sweeping wide. He inhaled deeply and found nothing fresh. Only residue. An old footprint in scent. Faded but wrong.

Beneath them, she shifted, no longer composed as she stood by the pool’s edge, her nervous energy dispelling any semblance of calm she had momentarily achieved. Wrapping her arms around herself, she glanced twice towards the densest part of the undergrowth—not towards the trail but deeper into the untamed wild. Resolutely, she moved forward.

Her pace was deliberate, mindful that panic could be more dangerous than any predator pursuing her. She deftly exited the stone shelf and reentered the glade, quickly donning her boots. She then proceeded into the forest, disappearing among the trees with the ease of someone intimately familiar with the terrain.

Kael and Kain observed from above, noting with surprise the silence of her steps. She navigated through the old-growth forest, ducking beneath fallen limbs, and followed no discernible path. For several minutes, she moved like one fleeing an unseen threat. Eventually, she paused and scanned her surroundings cautiously before continuing her unmarked route through the dense foliage.

At the base of a hollow pine tree, with peeling bark and gnarled roots resembling old hands, she knelt once more, surveying her surroundings but not spotting them. The air was cool and filled with the scent of damp earth and pine resin. She meticulously brushed aside the moss and a thin layer of pine needles until her fingers encountered nylon, the touch familiar and reassuring.

Kael tilted his head inquisitively, his eyes scanning the underbrush for any sign of movement.

“bug out bag,” Kain stated quietly, a note of curiousity in his voice. “She has prepared for this situation before.” The bag’s contents were carefully chosen for survival, yet you can tell she has no clue what to pack for such a situation what the fuck is going on.” Kael nodded his head in agreement as they watched from a bit further back in case she moved suddenly again.

Observing from their high vantage point, both individuals noted her actions as she methodically placed the backpack on her lap and unzipped it with composed hands. The contents appeared ordinary at first glance, yet they revealed significant details.

“She possesses water purification tablets, which is prudent,” Kael observed, his eyes narrowing thoughtfully. “The map is marked with precise annotations, neatly folded rather than torn, indicating careful planning. There is vacuum-sealed food sufficient for only one day, suggesting either a short trip or constraints we are unaware of.”

Kain added, “There are no additional clothes, no shelter materials, no cordage, nor even a thermal blanket. It appears she is addressing an immediate need rather than constructing a comprehensive plan.”

Kael examined the socks that she checked and repacked first, noticing their pristine condition and how they were secured in a double-knotted plastic bag to ensure dryness.

“She understands the critical importance of keeping her feet warm at least,” he remarked quietly. “This knowledge was likely acquired through personal experience or close encounters that taught her the hard way how crucial foot care is in survival situations judging by what is here.”

He then noticed the precision with which she handled each item, her movements deliberate and practiced, indicating a familiarity with her gear and its arrangement at least. The compactness of her supplies spoke volumes about her priorities and strategy—efficient, minimalist, but not without a disturbingly small understanding of her immediate environment and needs.

A tight, folded wad of cash came next. Kael watched how she held it—counted it silently, lips barely moving—then tucked it back into a hidden liner pocket like it was her insurance against the unknown.

“Exit cash,” Kael said flatly. “Small amount. Just enough for food, or to pay someone to look the other way if she is lucky.”

“She’s three hours from the city,” Kain noted. “No car. No backup. Just her feet and whatever memory she’s tracing.”

Kael’s gaze cut toward the slope they’d tracked her from. It was rough terrain—jagged switchbacks, sharp inclines—and nothing about it invited casual hikers. Especially not ones moving quietly, checking their backs every few minutes.

“She’s not passing through,” Kael said. “She’s preparing for retreating. What the hell is going on here.” Their conversation swift and to the point as they observe the girl cautiously. Less leery that she is a threat to a degree and more concerned about the threat to her and how it will impact the pack.

“And this place?” Kain’s voice dropped low. “This isn’t a camp. It’s a contingency, a plan for the need of a fast evac.”

Kael watched as she smoothed the soil back over the bag, patting it down in slow, even motions. Her hands trembled just slightly when she pulled back—but not with fear. With resolve. The kind you only gain when every escape route has cost you something.

“She doesn’t expect to survive out here,” Kael said. “Only to buy time.” His gut tightening almost sick at the idea of what would lead to such behaviour. And that, more than anything, made his chest tighten—not out of sympathy, but out of warning. Because people who’ve learned to hide this well don’t stay hidden for long. Not when something’s already hunting them, eventually they are likely to catch up to her. As she moved without hesitation, slipping between spruce and fir, brushing branches aside with the familiarity of someone who knew this route by heart. Kael and Kain followed from above and behind, their forms ghosts once again among the canopy, breath controlled, steps soundless.

They drifted silently after her, the shadows of the setting sun reaching long across the forest floor. Teya didn’t stop once to rest. She didn’t pause to admire the view. She didn’t wander or slow or act like this place comforted her.

Kael watched the way her arms stayed tucked in tight, her chin just slightly down, shoulders curled in as if trying to make herself smaller. “She’s done this a long time  you see her gait?”

Kain acknowledged, “She appears burdened and resigned, as if she is anticipating an imminent disruption.” Ahead of them, she stumbled slightly—a minor misstep caused by her boot catching on a root. Regaining her balance with the aid of a low-hanging branch, she did not utter any exclamation or exhibit any reaction. She merely took a deep breath and wiped her face with the back of her hand. From their vantage point, Kael observed the brief shimmer on her cheek, illuminated by the fading light through the trees. It was evident that she was crying. She pressed her sleeve to her mouth, remained motionless for a moment, and then continued walking without looking back or pausing again.

“She appears to be unraveling,” Kain observed, noting the subtle tremor in her hands and the shadowed circles under her eyes. “In a discreet manner.”

“She is fatigued,” Kael responded, his gaze softening as he watched her pause and sigh heavily. “Accustomed to solitude, hence she conceals it with impeccable grace.” Neither twin took action to intervene—not yet, despite the way their instincts screamed at them to do so. The moment was not appropriate, for the forest seemed to pulse with unspoken words and secrets. She was not prepared to be noticed, her shoulders hunched as if bearing an invisible weight. And they were not prepared to reveal themselves—not until they comprehended why the forest was so familiar with her footsteps, the leaves whispering her name as she tread softly across the path. Not until they understood what troubled her steps on the journey back to the city which seemed to be her destina