Chapter 23 Esmeralda''S Pov

• Pain radiates through my body, dragging me from the dark void of unconsciousness. My eyelids flutter open, but the dim light stings, and I groan softly. The earthy scent of the forest surrounds me, mixed with the metallic tang of blood. My own, I realize as I shift slightly, wincing at the sharp sting in my side.
• Where am I?
• The memories come rushing back like a flood: running with Lucien, the flares, the amber eyes, and the beast that attacked me.