By the second dark, Valery found them yet another tree to pass the swift night. Unlike the first night, today's surroundings felt calmer. The breeze blew naturally, and the air was not stiff.
Prince Theron lay in the arms of his lover, their bodies entangled as they listened to each other's soft breathing.
"While I have to guide you, there are some things I cannot help you with," Valery muttered.
The lovers looked up to her.
"What are you talking about?" Kim demanded.
"No one comes in alone. A pair it has always been, and nothing less. For the blood sacrifice demands a share."
Theron and Kim stared at each other, their blood running cold.
"What do you mean by 'their own share?" Kim was first to ask, and Valery smiled gently.
"No traveler leaves without offering something," Valery replied, her eyes colder than usual.
"So what is the offering?" Theron demanded, a little too urgently.
