The news came of his death and it... it broke a part of me. I have never felt such a blow. I couldn't bear it. I... lost our child. His last wish was for me to protect that little one, and I could not. So, I fled. I cast aside my worth, and my honour. I no longer wanted to be a part of the world without them."

Algra was looking at the stone edge to the shore of the stream, resting on her knees with her shoulders drooped and her arms lay before her.

Defeated and broken from the weight of her confession.

She felt Ulla's arm settle across her bare shoulders, and turned immediately to face the girl.

"I did not know this," Ulla said. "You should have told me."

“The pain was mine to bear. I saw what the news of Rowun's death did to your family. I did not wish to add to their sorrow."

“The pain was not yours to bear alone, Algra Strongblood. You dishonour us in keeping such a secret."

Algra's head sank even Lower upon hearing that.

“But I no longer hate you, sister," Ulla said.

“How could you not?"

“Because you did not Leave my brother to die alone. You were preparing to bring him a family of his own. There is no shame in what you have done."

“That is what Grolfir continually tells me. Yet I feel it. I feel it down into my bones. The only escape from it has been..."

“Our alpha? You should speak with him about this."

"I couldn't bear for him to know. He would look at me differently."

“He would love you. Though, he might rightfully wish to beat some sense into you for keeping this from him. If you weren't appearing so pathetic right now, I'd do it for him. Some good has already come from you speaking of it."

“Oh?”

“I'm no Longer planning to kill you."

“Really? That's good to hear."

“Don't get too comfortable. I'm still considering breaking your legs for keeping this from me. ALL this time I have loathed you, Algra. Now

I have met my true enemy. The ones who killed my brother. Once I have killed them all, I shall challenge you to mend your insult."