Chapter 5

“Can you show me where you’re from?” My cheeks heated with embarrassment, and he narrowed his eyes at me. “What’s wrong? Can you not read a map?”

“I can’t read in general, my lord. I never had the opportunity to learn.” He gave me a sad smile that made my heart clench.

“What about the packs? Have you learned about them?” I shook my head. “Come.” He gently grasped my hand to pull me closer to the desk, and I instinctively tensed up at his touch. “Don’t be afraid, Rieka. I won’t hurt you.” His words calmed me, and I allowed myself to step towards the desk beside him and gazed upon the map again. He pointed to the berry in the top left corner. “This the Nightshade pack. They get their name because their forests are filled with the poisonous berries. It is how they choose to kill their enemies and traitors. They’re also known for their Indigo eyes.” He indicated to the red full moon. “The Blood Moon Pack is our religious pack. Most of our Guardians come from here because they understand