Mira followed the narrow wolf trail through the forest while the wind howled across the mountain ridge. Every step she took sank deeply into the frozen ground, and snow clung to the branches above. Even though the Silverfang territory had always been solemn, it felt vulnerable today, as though the land itself were fighting for its life.
Rowan walked beside her in silence, his sharp eyes scanning the trees.
“You did not have to come,” he said quietly.
Mira shook her head. “If something is wrong with the pups, I need to see it myself.”
Rowan did not argue, but the tension in his shoulders told her he was worried.
They reached the den just before dusk. The cave entrance was partially buried by drifting snow, and the scent of illness hung faintly in the air. Mira’s stomach tightened immed
