Chapter 42

Arianna made it back to Riverford just after nightfall, exhausted and shaken but alive. Helena and the patrol warriors were waiting at the settlement's edge, clearly having watched for her return with increasing anxiety.

"We were about to organize a rescue party," Helena said, relief evident in her voice. "What happened?"

"Blackthorn wanted to talk," Arianna replied. "Just talk. Can we do this inside? I need to sit down before I fall down."

They gathered in Thomas's hall—a larger group now, with Ruth having arrived from the refugee camp along with Marcus and several others. Word had spread quickly about Arianna's summons to the main compound, and everyone...