Before new dangers threatened Barduff Castle, the old war drums had not yet died down. Jacob sat in the war room, his face solemn and dark as dawn broke over the fortress. His scouts' reports, each one more grim than the last, were strewn across the heavy wooden table. Edmund Boris was reorganizing and putting together a force that was much stronger than before, so he was not defeated.
His Beta and Leah's brother, Samuel Ordwolf, stood beside him, his keen eyes scouring the intelligence in front of them. "This isn't just a retaliation," Samuel stated in a somber tone. "Edmund is planning something bigger."
Jacob raked his fingers through his hair and let out a sharp exhale. "He is assembling supporters. We'll be engaged in a multifrontal conflict if he moves on Barduff."
Jacob looked at Leah as soon as she walked into the room. Their relationship had become closer, but he was still filled with doubt. With a determined expression, she carried her own report. "I had a conversation with the guards on the southern border. Rogue sightings have been reported in the vicinity of the historic trade routes. We must stop it immediately if Edmund is allowing more forces to pass.
Jacob nodded, grateful for her strategic thinking. "I agree. Before they approach, we'll send warriors to intercept them.
Another scout rushed in, gasping for air, and the doors flew open. "We were able to intercept Edmund's men's messages, Alpha. To acquire supplies and recruits, they are focusing on the weaker villages close to our territory.
Jacob's chest rumbled with a growl. "Then we take the fight to them before they take it to us."
Samuel's fists clenched. We cannot afford to take our time. We must strengthen our alliances and mobilize our forces. We must ensure that Edmund regrets challenging us if that is his true intention.
Leah touched Jacob on the arm. "Jacob, you are not alone in this. Together, we stand. Barduff is not going to fall.
Despite their intensity, her words evoked a deeper response in him. She had repeatedly shown her worth. She had grown to be an indisputable source of strength, even though he was still having trouble accepting an Omega as his Luna. And he needed her now more than ever.
Jacob's eyes hardened as he turned to face his warriors. Communicate with our allies. We fortify Barduff immediately. If Edmund Boris wants war, then war is what he'll get."
Purposefully, the war room stirred. Strategies were outlined and orders were given. Although the battle for Barduff was far from over, Jacob was prepared to take it on.
This time, he would not be caught off guard by the approaching storm.