A sharp, rhythmic thudding at the door startled Lin Wan from her exhaustion. She sat up on the silver-fox furs, pushing her tangled hair back. Before she could even call out, the door creaked open just a crack. It was Bax.
"The Chief sent me," Bax grunted, his eyes carefully avoiding the red patches on her face, though his curiosity was plain to the eyes
"Tomorrow night, when the moon is high, there will be a bonfire party in the central plaza. It is a celebration for the Sanctuary, and a welcome for you. Every male in the Orycto and the guest tribes will be there, and you are invited."
Lin Wan felt a cold spike of anxiety. "A party? Bax, look at me. I'm exhausted, I'm covered in rashes, and I just lost my..." She trailed off, her voice cracking. "I can't. I just want to stay indoor."
