Leah's head was full of questions as she followed Samuel through the thick woodland. Even though the moonlight hardly made it through the dense canopy above, she was able to follow his every move thanks to her excellent vision. She was uncomfortable with the haste with which he walked.
Samuel looked over his shoulder and muttered, "We're almost there." "A little bit further."
Leah's fists clenched. "You have yet to inform me of our destination."
"You'll see."
They reached a remote cave tucked up amid rocky outcrops a few minutes later. Leah paused for a second before following Samuel as he ducked inside. With candles already lighted around the walls, the tunnel opened up into a chamber. In the middle, a tiny fire flickered, creating shifting shadows.
Leah's arms were crossed. "Speak up."
With a heavy sigh, Samuel combed through his tangled hair. "Leah, you must realize that I didn't return merely to look for you. The truth about our past is greater than each of us, which is why I returned.
Her eyes narrowed. "Then tell me about it."
Samuel gestured for her to take a seat close to the fire. She stood, her posture unyielding.
"All right," he whispered. "It is true that I was taken as a child. However, are you aware of the reason?
Leah scowled. "You mentioned that Gwen's relatives were involved."
He gave a nod. "They were." However, their desire for dominance wasn't the only factor. It has to do with managing a prophecy.
Leah felt a shiver go down her back. "Foretelling?"
Samuel's intense gaze blazed. Indeed. Before Gwen's family took over, the pack had an elderly seer. She described twin wolves—a brother and sister—who were meant to be leaders. a harmony between power and knowledge.
Leah gave a headshake. "That isn't rational. I am not a leader.
Samuel gave a halting laugh. That's precisely what they intended you to think. In order for you to never realize your full potential, they took me.
Leah's throat tightened with breath. She felt the pressure of what he had spoken. Is it possible? Had a falsehood affected her entire life?
They both turned abruptly as they heard a noise coming from the cave entrance. There was a dark figure in the doorway, exuding menace.
Leah's heartbeat accelerated. They weren't here for a friendly visit, whoever had discovered them.
Samuel reached for his dagger's hilt. "Remain behind me."
Leah's shoulders went square. "No chance."
The figure stepped forward, revealing their face.
It was Gwen.