Chapter 22

Valeria’s POV

Kaelen’s eyes flicked over me, sceptical yet intrigued. “And how do you plan to reach the Occident? To survive out there, penniless, without protection?” His voice carried a biting edge as if daring me to falter.

I met his gaze steadily. “I’ll walk as far as I can. Someone will show me kindness eventually.” I could see a flicker of disbelief in his eyes, a scornful smirk. “And I’ll m