Kael's fists clenched at his sides as Dareth's words echoed in the night air. Around them, the traitorous warriors shifted, forming a semi-circle meant to box them in. Elara's pulse surged with power from the Moonstone, fire whispering beneath her skin.
"We have to move," she murmured to Kael. "Now."
Before he could reply, one of the wolves lunged. Kael met him midair, claws out, teeth bared. The impact sent both crashing to the ground. Elara didn't hesitate. She hurled a wave of fire toward the closest attacker, forcing them back as the flames danced dangerously across the earth.
"Get them!" Dareth barked, drawing his blade.
Kael ducked under another strike, grabbing Elara's hand. "We won't win this now. We need the others."
Together, they leapt into the trees, darting through shadows and tangled roots. The woods of Moonveil had once been a sanctuary. Now, they pulsed with danger, echoes of betrayal chasing every step.
Behind them, snarls and curses rang through the trees. Kael's senses sharpened as they ran. He knew this forest like he knew the back of his hand. If he could get to the old cavern system beneath the ridge, they could disappear long enough to regroup.
After nearly an hour of running, ducking, and doubling back, Kael pulled Elara into a narrow crevice hidden behind a waterfall. The roar of rushing water masked their presence as they slipped into the cool, damp tunnel.
Elara leaned against the stone wall, catching her breath. "We trusted them."
Kael's jaw clenched. "Dareth's weakness was always ambition. Vael offered him a crown without a soul."
The Moonstone in Elara's hand glowed faintly. "He wants this," she whispered. "It's not just about the pack anymore — he's after the power it holds. He'll burn the world to control it."
Kael looked at her, determination burning in his eyes. "Then we light the fire first. We find those still loyal. We remind them what Moonveil was built on — not fear, not submission, but unity. Honor."
Elara nodded. "And love."
They clasped hands, a bond stronger than fate solidifying between them.
The Alpha and his Moonmate were far from defeated.
They were just getting started.