She looks down at Puna. "And you, young panther, are incredible and so loyal to your human." She strokes Puna's head, making her purr.

Hecate turns to Clara. "We should head to the courtyard; they should be there by now," she says.

Clara nods and points the way. "Follow us, Ava. We'll explain everything," she says.

Hecate and Puna take the lead while Clara and I follow behind.

"You must have so many questions," she says.

I nod. ...