Dawn came early, the light seeping under the edges of the tent and prodding Kahlan into awareness.
But this time, she awoke alone.
The Mother Confessor stretched contentedly and surveyed the interior of their tent.
Where was Cara?
Kahlan shook herself. No need to panic, Kahlan. She's probably just out for a walk.
She chided herself. You may be a Confessor, but one evening of cuddling shouldn't make you so needy.
Straightening her dress, she took another deep sip of water and approached the door flap of their tent. Kahlan paused, preparing herself to act the part of humble guest and dignified Confessor. A deep breath, and Kahlan pushed through the flap and stepped outside.
The morning air was still cool, and though her throat was still raw, the water and the good night's sleep had bolstered her spirits immensely. She set out walking, intent on finding her companion and exploring their camp.
Surrounding her tent were many other tents, just like the one she and Cara had shared. Each one had a different design, as well as a weapons rack rammed into the ground beside each entrance. Kahlan wondered briefly where they had found the wood in this barren desert.
Where is everyone? Kahlan thought, the silence of the camp suddenly reaching her like a burst of cold air. Perhaps the Nawlee have different sleep requirements?
Kahlan felt for her weapon, a casual habit meant to reassure herself and frighten her enemies. She had forgotten that their weapons had been seized.
Kahlan was beginning to feel very uneasy, and her mind had begun to work through the situation.
In reality, they hadn't found salvation with these people at all. Kahlan was weaponless, uninformed as to their location, and completely reliant on their hosts for food, water and transportation. She had no bargaining chips. She didn't even know if the Nawlee had any understanding of what Confessors were capable of.
Kahlan also didn't know what the Nawlee were capable of.