Kiva had been amused by Flannery’s enthusiasm throughout their journey, although she’d learned quickly that asking the other woman to help carry supplies was a lost cause. Not that she minded. She enjoyed the company, and having someone familiar with Camhanaich along certainly couldn’t hurt. When Flannery bumped against her shoulder and asked whether anyone would remember her, Kiva laughed and gave her a playful nudge in return. “Oh, I’m sure they will. You’re not exactly the sort of woman people forget, ya know.” She grinned, her amber eyes dancing with amusement. “Although whether that’s a good thing or a bad thing, I suppose we’ll find out.” She gave Flannery another teasing look before turning her attention back toward the territory.

It wasn’t long before someone appeared to greet them, and Kiva’s smile softened as she took in the stranger’s appearance. Goodness. Raelan had told her what had happened, but hearing about something and seeing the aftermath were two very different things. The scars across his face and ears were difficult to miss, as was the way he seemed to favor one shoulder. He looked exhausted, too. She couldn’t imagine how difficult things must have been for the wolves here lately. Her gaze briefly wandered toward the surrounding territory, where she caught sight of a smaller figure tucked against one of the spires. A child, perhaps? She couldn’t quite tell from here, and she wasn’t about to go poking around where she hadn’t been invited. Especially not when everyone seemed to have good reason to be wary of strangers.

“Thank you. I appreciate the welcome,” she replied warmly, dipping her head in greeting. “And please, don’t feel like you need to go to any trouble on our account. I know you’ve got plenty on your plate already.” She glanced down at the bundle she’d brought, nudging it forward slightly. “I’ve got some dried meat, a couple of rabbits, and a few different herbs. Yarrow, calendula, chamomile. I wasn’t sure what you’d be running low on, so I figured a little variety wouldn’t hurt.” She offered him a small smile. “It’s not a whole lot, but I hope it’ll help.”

At his invitation, Kiva nodded and carefully gathered the supplies again, waiting for him to lead the way before crossing the border. She couldn’t help noticing the way his eyes kept searching beyond them, though she was polite enough not to comment on it. Whatever had happened here had clearly left its mark, and she had no intention of making anyone feel uncomfortable. “I’m Kiva, by the way. And this is Flannery, although I have a feeling you two might already know each other.” She glanced toward her companion with an affectionate grin before returning her attention to Lestan. “Raelan sends his regards. He wanted to make sure your people knew Eastrenhold hasn’t forgotten about you.” Her expression softened. “And if there’s anything else you need, I’d be happy to bring word back to him. That’s what I’m here for, after all.”