Lulu

We left before sunrise.

The Sapphire Water Pack convoy moved through the sleeping city in silence—three black vehicles carrying Alpha Caspian, several Elders, and me. I watched the faint lights blur past the window, one hand resting instinctively over my stomach.

For once, I wasn’t running away from anything.

The airport came into view—Azure Crest International Aerodrome, a private terminal reserved for diplomatic packs. Glass walls reflected the pale dawn, guards lowering their ...