The first rogue came through low and fast, its fur a matted mess, teeth bared, eyes glowing with hunger. It didn’t hesitate—it lunged straight for Draven.
Elaria barely had time to gasp before Draven moved, catching the wolf mid-air with a force that seemed impossible in such a narrow space. His claws raked across its flank, sending it yelping into the wall.
But another shadow was already in the tunnel. Then another.
Draven’s stance widened, his body angled to shield her completely. “I told you—behind me,” he growled, never taking his eyes off the enemy.
She stayed there, back pressed against the wall, the cold stone biting into her spine. She wanted to argue, to remind him she wasn’t helpless—but the truth was, right now, she was glad he was between her and whatever was coming.
The n
