KAYLA POINT OF VIEW

I was lying in the infirmary when I felt a hand running across my face.

The touch was soft, soothing, and calming. My eyes opened slowly.

“Mom?” I whispered.

Vanya was sitting beside my bed, her face pale and tired, like she hadn’t slept in days. She flinched a little when our eyes met, then forced a weak smile.

“You’re awake,” she murmured. “Thank the Moon Goddess.”

I tried to sit up, but she placed a gentle hand on my shoulder. “Don’t move too ...