Time seemed to flow together after the days following the dark wolf confrontation, all draped in tense expectation and preparations. Blair felt heavy with the mantle of leadership during this moment when gathering the packs would certainly become pivotal in the battle against the forces of darkness. The markings on the trees and their encounter with the strange creature kept reminding her that this dark force wasn't just a figment of their imaginations; it was a tangible, imminent threat.
The pack spent every morning training hard, polishing their skills and cementing ties with each other. Kade was leading the patrols so that all eyes would remain open. The air was thick with urgency, for the wolves sensed that time was against them.
Under an evening sky, which was turning orange from th
