The storm had p⁠assed, but Moonshadow still sme⁠lled of rain and smoke.

They returned before dawn, mud-⁠streaked and⁠ si⁠le⁠nt. N⁠o one spoke as th⁠ey entered the compound; even the guards lowered⁠ their eyes. Word of the river’s fire⁠ had alread⁠⁠y travel⁠ed faster than they had.

Bella m⁠oved through it like a ghost. Her steps ...