Tainted Awakening

KIERA’S POV

The metallic tang of blood and the sour sting of bile filled my mouth, pulling me back to consciousness. My throat burned, and I coughed hard, tasting something bitter and revolting. My vision swam as I struggled to focus. When it finally steadied, I saw my mother leaning over me, her face pale and frantic.

“Thank Morrigan,” she whispered, pulling me into a hug so tight I could barely