Matilda's pov

After what had happened, the camp fell silent. Too quiet. The type that settles after commotion, when everyone acts as though nothing is wrong.

Maya was pale but breathing more easily as she lay in her tent. The healers had done their best. As I sat in front of her, I could observe the gradual rise and fall of her chest. Her body fell between me and the assassin's blade, and even when I closed my eyes, I could still see the drops of blood.

Maya said in a harsh voice, "You're ...