Natalia’s POV
The next morning came too quickly. I woke to the sound of voices outside and the clatter of supplies being loaded onto wagons. Bloodmoon was splitting in half, and everyone who had decided to leave was already preparing for the journey.
I dressed slowly—a good night’s sleep in a real bed had somehow made the soreness in my body even worse, so every movement was an effort. Andrei was already up and helping with the preparations. Hope and the twins were with Grace, who had volunteered to watch them while I said my goodbyes.
I found Celeste in her chambers. She was sitting by the window, staring out at the courtyard below where people were gathering. She didn’t turn when I entered.
“Celeste.”
She didn’t respond. Just kept staring out that window.
I crossed the room and sat
