Reports from neighboring territories grew grimmer. Mara's scattered rogues, far from being defeated, were gaining strength. She had found new recruits among the disillusioned and the outcast, preying on their bitterness towards the established packs. Her attacks were no longer random; they were strategic, targeting resource-rich areas and communication hubs.
What concerned Maddox most was the increased organization, far beyond what Mara seemed capable of on her own. Elara's dreams of a shadowy manipulator felt increasingly real. There were whispers of rogue pack leaders, once rivals to Mara, now falling under her banner. It suggested a powerful new influence, perhaps someone providing resources, information, or even a new kind of mind-link to unify her disparate forces.
Maddox understood that their victory over Thorne was only one battle won in a larger war. Mara's resurgence meant the fragile peace they had gained was once again threatened. He called a meeting with his allies, warning them that the rogues, united under Mara's vengeful leadership and perhaps a new, unseen hand, posed a greater danger than ever before. The scent of conflict was once again thick in the air.