Chapter 24: The Village of the Unmarked Wolf

After hours of walking, Aria’s feet burned with raw spots and cuts from the ruthless forest floor. Absalom hadn’t slowed since exiting the cave and his quick walk kept her at a slow jog. Her body was tired and though trying to breathe, she hadn’t a moment to ask any of the questions pressing on her mind. Absalom had stayed silent, barely uttering a word besides the occasional this way or watch your step.

“I thought you said this village was just up ahead.”

“It is.” His rumbling voice immediately silenced her desire to complain. His ability to demand her respect still annoyed her as did the urging from the wolf inside to submit to the desires he drew out in her.

They climbed over more fallen trees and emerged onto a well-worn path. Absalom turned his nose up into the air and sniffed. Aria wondered that he could still use his wolf abilities in his human form. He stood still for a moment and then resumed walking. The path began to turn down into what appeared to be a ravine. T