#Chapter 88: Return to the Ayzena

With no need to fear future attacks, we are set to leave the next morning. I meet with the Elders first so we could work out the details of my absence. Charles is also there, and there is a very informal “changing of the guard,” so to speak. He already knows his duties, so anything they explain to him is merely formality. For the first time, I feel a part of them. I may not know hardly anyone in the Malkeye pack, but I know this handful of Council members and they treat me like an equal. It makes me feel so included. And so grown up. Will my mother even recognize me? Of course she will, but will she notice any changes in me? I hope so…and for the better. The Elders and Charles also see us off. I feel like Charles and I have a connection, especially since he’s the first one to recognize me for who I am. I should be able to trust him while I’m gone. Rita and Alex wait until we’re out of town to shift. “I know it may take you a while to figure it out, and I didn’t want you to have to