Damien, Xavier, and I moved swiftly through the dark forest. We followed a narrow path that led toward the eastern border where the scouts had been attacked. Xavier walked ahead, his senses heightened, while Damien stayed close beside me, his protective instincts on high alert.
The silence between us was only broken by the rustling of leaves and the distant howls of wolves. I forced myself to stay calm. I had trained for this. I had prepared myself for the dangers that came with being part of the pack.
As we approached the border, Xavier held up a hand.
"We're close," he whispered. "Stay sharp."
We moved cautiously forward, and soon the faint scent of blood reached my nose. Damien stiffened beside me, his eyes scanning the area.
"There," he muttered, pointing toward a clearing just ahead.
