After a moment, she broke it. "I think I know what the spirit animal means."
Galen tilted his head slightly. "The jaguar?"
"Yes." She sat up slowly, the sheets falling around her waist. "I want to see him. I think I'm ready to accept him."
"You're sure?"
She nodded firmly. "I'm ready to accept my fate, whatever the Moon Goddess planned when she made me the chosen one. If that's what it takes to protect this kingdom, my siblings, and everyone I love, then so be it. I need to be stronger."
Galen studied her for a long moment, then got out of bed. "Then I'll go with you."
She gave him a small smile. "I was hoping you'd say that."
He grabbed his shirt and adjusted his sword belt. "The jaguar is in the royal menagerie. He's…not exactly friendly."
"Not friendly?" she repeated, raising a brow.
