The first light of dawn barely pierced through the canopy as we moved through the dense forest, the air still thick with the scent of earth and pine. The soft crunch of leaves underfoot and the occasional distant call of a bird were the only sounds as we approached the outskirts of the waretiger territory. Tension rippled through our group, each of us on high alert, our senses sharp. Morrigan bristled within me, her own sense of caution heightening with every step.
Beside me, Carter’s gaze was focused, though I could feel the quick glances he cast in my direction. His presence was steady, reassuring, but I knew the significance of this alliance weighed heavily on him as well. This was uncharted ground, both for us as leaders and as mates.
As we reached the edge of the forest, Caius appea
