The forest was still, but the tension thrummed beneath the snow like a living thing. I moved along the ridge above the camp, my boots crunching softly in the frozen undergrowth, eyes scanning the darkened treeline. The snow had grown heavier since nightfall, clinging to every branch, every ridge, masking sound and movement. The rogue camp below was alive with disciplined activity, wolves moving in quiet patterns, signals flashing through subtle gestures, every shift a message. I felt the weight of responsibility settle deeper into my shoulders. Tonight, patience had ended; observation had given us enough insight.
Tarek walked silently beside me, eyes sharp, hands lightly resting on the hilt of his dagger. Mira followed behind, her ears twitching, her senses straining. We had watched Red H
