Chapter 7
279 Words
“They are forming lines along the tree line,” the second warrior added. “Not crossing yet.”
Ryder’s jaw tightened.
“Defensive positions only,” he ordered. “No advance without my command.”
“Yes, Alpha.”
The warriors ran off.
Nova stood frozen.
This was not random.
Silvercrest had been quiet for years. Scattered. Weak.
They could not mobilize like this without planning.
Without direction.
Without leadership.
Her thoughts raced.
Lucian.
Had he known.
Had she triggered this.
Ryder turned to her slowly. “You know something.”
It was not an accusation. It was instinct.
She shook her head automatically. “I don’t.”
But her voice was not steady.
The bond pulsed sharply.
“Nova.”
The way he said her name made her chest tighten.
“I need to prepare,” she said quickly. “You should focus on your pack.”
He studied her face for a long moment.
“If this becomes war,” he said quietly, “I will not let harm come to you.”
The promise felt dangerous now.
She stepped back.
“I can protect myself.”
“I know.”
Silence stretched again, but this time it was heavy with something darker.
War.
The word echoed in her mind as she walked away.
She did not go to the pack house.
She went to the forest.
To the hollow tree.
Her hands moved quickly as she opened the capsule.
A message was already inside.
Her breath stopped.
She unfolded it.
Silvercrest is ready. Bloodmoon weakens under false peace. Your position has served its purpose.
Her vision blurred.
Another line followed.
When war begins, kill Ryder.
- Writer
