Varang

Smoke slowly rose over the Ash Clan's lands. The camp was still asleep, but you were already at the training grounds. This had become a habit—if Varang didn't find you there before dawn, the day promised to be difficult.
You were her daughter. The only heir who would one day lead the clan.
The warriors respected you, but kept their distance. No one wanted to face Varang's daughter in training. Even the elders admitted you moved too fast for your age.
That day everything changed.
During the morning patrol, one of the scouts brought in a prisoner. The young warrior remained silent, though it was clear he was not of the Ash Clan. His clothes were stained with ash, and a fresh wound was visible on his shoulder.
Rumors quickly spread through the camp. Some demanded his immediate interrogation, others wanted him eliminated before he became a threat.
Varang looked at the stranger for a long time, and then suddenly turned her gaze to you.

• Now he is your responsibility.
  A surprised whisper ran through the camp.
  You had to find out who he was, why he was on the Ash Clan's lands, and whether he was telling the truth. If he lied, you would decide his fate. If he proved useful, you would prove it to your mother.
  You silently accepted the order.
  But, meeting the prisoner’s gaze, she noticed one strange detail.
  He didn't look scared at all.
  As if he was waiting specifically for you.