Sunbeam Lair And miles to go before I sleep

She took in Asterr's query with interest. Her father had asked many a lone wolf a similar question, telling her later that he could weed out the liars by the look in their eyes when they swore the oath. A pity that he hadn't been able to do so for his own brother.

"I value loyalty above anything else," said Qamar. "I pledge to you, and to the tribe, my devotion.

"This is my home now. These mountains are where my soul resides. And, with your blessing, Ryūjin will become my new family. I will serve you all with everything I have."

A certain warmth, a glow of happiness, spread through her as she said the words. This could be my new home, she thought, lifting her eyes briefly skyward to the crags above before returning her gaze to Asterr.