CHAPTER 42

(ORION'S POV)

As the woman in the rugged cloak and auburn hair stepped forward, her gentle demeanor took me by surprise. "My name is Sheila," she said softly, her voice carrying a sense of familiarity that made me pause. "I know this might sound strange, and I understand if you doubt my words... but I've actually known you for quite some time, Orion."

Her revelation caused my skepticism to surge. How could this stranger claim to know me? My eyebrows twitched at the casual use of my name by someone I'd never met before. Yet, despite my reservations, there was something about Sheila that intrigued me. There was an authenticity in her mannerisms, a sincerity that I rarely encountered in my dealings with nobles or tricksters.

Despite my instincts urging caution, I couldn't shake the feeling that Sheila meant me no harm. Perhaps it was the earnestness in her eyes or the way her words carried a weight of truth. Whatever it was, I found myself leaning in, curious to hear more.

My guard bega