Solaine's POV

　　I feel a deep sense of gratitude, but I am filled with apprehension at the thought of someone enduring such immense pain on my behalf.

　　"I..."

　　"Excuse me," a high-pitched, youthful voice abruptly interrupted me, slicing through the air like a sharp knife.

　　"The beta beckoned you into the dimly lit chamber," she whispered, her voice barely audible. I met her gaze and silently acknowledged her words with a subtle nod of my head. ...