Thirty Two

Damian

Stormwind's hooves thundered over the packed earth as we galloped swiftly toward the forest edge. The wind lashed my face, blurring details into abstract smears of color. But my focus remained fixed straight ahead.

I would not lose Natalia's trail now. Her life likely depended on my finding her before the elements or wild beasts did.

Guilt gnawed at my core, sharper than the winter chill knifing through my cloak. If not for my stubborn blindness and temper, she never would have believed fleeing into danger her only choice. I had failed spectacularly in my responsibilities as Alpha.

Only bringing her home safely now could begin to mend this breach. I silently prayed the gods grant us that chance. Stormwind tossed his head urgently beneath me, as if sharing my fervent wish. Natalia's loss would leave a wound beyond healing in us both.

At last the shadowy tree line loomed before us. I reined Stormwind to a canter, then a brisk walk as we entered the dim undergrowth. Now stealth