Dawn broke cold and gray over the northern borders.
Kael stood atop a ridge, eyes scanning the valley below. The Shadow Pact had grown beyond what anyone had imagined—rogues, exiles, and wolves from forgotten packs filled the forest paths, moving in disciplined lines. Each step, each signal, each gesture was measured.
“We strike at the supply lines first,” Kael said, voice low but carrying authority. “We do not destroy. We disrupt. We make them aware that we exist.”
The wolves nodded, their eyes sharp with understanding. This was not a battle yet—it was a demonstration of strategy, precision, and purpose.
A young recruit hesitated. “If we do this, will they retaliate?”
Kael crouched to meet his gaze. “Yes. They will. And we will be ready.”
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Back in the capital, Glosh convened her
