A few of them exchanged mocking smirks, letting out low chuckles. The beta’s mouth opened as he readied to explain—but before he could say a word, a distinct scent drifted toward them, sharp with herbs and earth.
They all turned just in time to see Amara approaching, her steps uneven.
She wore loose, breathable garments that revealed the edges of her bandaged injuries. Layers of salves and herbs clung to her skin, the scent unmistakable. Her movement was labored, each step clearly painful, and her usual air of pride was dulled, her face pale and drawn. Still, she managed a frail smile as she approached the cluster of warriors.
“What’s the commotion about?” she asked, feigning curiosity with practiced ease. “Why are you all gathered here like something urgent happened?”
A warrior stepped forward, speaking without hesitation. “We just returned after dealing with Marian. Gave her what she deserved.”
Amara stopped short, her eyes widening slightly—just enough to seem surprised.
“Dealt with Marian?” she echoed, her voice delicate, touched with disbelief. One hand moved to rest lightly over her heart. “Where’s Alpha Rydan?”
As though her words summoned him, Rydan appeared from the shadows nearby. His imposing form silenced the entire group in an instant. His sharp gaze locked onto the beta warrior, suspicion flaring in his eyes.
“Why are you here instead of fulfilling your assignment?” Rydan barked. “I gave you clear instructions.”
The beta straightened, mouth parting to offer an explanation—but Amara slipped between them, speaking before he could utter a word.
“Rydan,” she said softly, her voice trembling with apparent worry as she looked up at him with wide, imploring eyes. “Is it true? Did you really have Marian punished?”
Rydan’s jaw clenched. “Yes,” he said with conviction. “She had it coming after what she did to you.”
Amara looked down, her hands clasped in front of her.
“I… I don’t hold her actions against her,” she whispered. “Maybe her anger overwhelmed her. She’s carrying a child. That must’ve clouded her thoughts.”
Rydan’s eyes narrowed. “You’re pregnant, too,” he reminded her coldly. “But you don’t behave like that.”
Amara turned her head away, as though the words shamed her. “Perhaps I empathize with her pain,” she murmured. “I don’t want to be the cause of her misery. Leaving her out there, alone… it breaks my heart.”