I felt the guard's arms tighten around me, holding me securely in place as he continued to move swiftly through the corridors. The alpha's voice grew fainter, and I sensed that we were putting distance between ourselves and the alpha's concerned would increase.

As the guard's footsteps slowed, I felt relief. Maybe, just maybe, I was going to be okay. The guard's gentle voice whispered in my ear, "Hang in there, ma'am, we're almost there."

I felt the guard's arms adjust around me, and then I was being lowered onto a soft surface. I opened my eyes to find myself in a small, dimly lit room. The guard was kneeling...