and we go on

Natalya does not dodge the elephant in the room so to speak, and perhaps Virgil is thankful for it. She almost wants to let it go, but she does not. Her eyes flutter shut, and she takes a deep breath. ?Aunt Nat I?. I was?.I fell and got a concussion when I was in heat. When I was unable to defend myself somebody?someone?.? she cannot finish the words, cannot bring herself to say rape, because it feels like a stinging blow to the pride that she could have something like that happen to her.

Her Aunt brings news of Valhalla and Glaciem, two packs that Virgil knows nothing of. ?Which one is stronger?? she says, curious. It will help her decision in who to ally with. However, the mention of a horse does not upset her as much. ?The horse can graze as she pleases,? she informs. ?As for you, dear Aunt, how does Centurion sound?? she inquires. It seems a suitable role for the melanistic woman, and Virgil trusts her with it.