Chapter 82

• AMIE
• Hours ago, when Amie arrived for her shift, a wave of relief washed over her at the sight of Slave Master Gaine alone behind the tavern bar, Master Boris notably absent. The feeling lingered, a comforting warmth against the chill of the night as she finished her work and stepped out into the darkness.
• Eager to return to the fortress, she took the shorter route through the barn. But her steps faltered as a bloodcurdling scream pierced the silence. More screams, more pleas. The slave, whoever it was, was begging a master for mercy. She recognized the masculine voice.