THORNE POINT OF VIEW.

Pain was the first thing I felt when I opened my eyes.

It sat heavy in my leg, deep and burning, like something alive had settled there and refused to leave. The room smelled of herbs and smoke, sharp and bitter. I knew that smell well.

The healing chamber.

I shifted slightly and hissed before I could stop myself.

“Easy, Alpha,” the healer said at once, stepping closer. “You should not move yet.”

Before I could answer, I heard footsteps at the door.

“Let ...