Kora’s POV
The forest seemed to grow denser the further we went. The air, thick with the smell of damp earth and pine, felt heavier, almost suffocating. Despite the exhaustion in my legs and the ache in my shoulders, I kept my pace steady. We couldn’t afford to rest—not now. The stronghold was still a long way off, and time was a luxury we didn’t have.
Edward was ahead, his dark silhouette barely visible in the shadows of the trees. I could see him every few seconds, the occasional flash of his profile catching the moonlight. His steady gait was a contrast to the tension that vibrated through the air. Luka was at the back with the others, ensuring our rear guard was covered. The rest of the pack, silent and focused, moved in a tight formation, each person more aware of their surroundings
