🌙 Episode 48: The War in Shadows
Ethan's POV
Days had passed since the ambush, but my instincts screamed that Marcus wasn't finished. He was too cunning, too patient. Wolves loyal to me had reported strange movements in the outer territories—packs gathering in secret, alliances forming that shouldn't exist.
Marcus was building something. An army.
I stood on the ridge, staring down at the dark forest that stretched for miles. My wolf clawed beneath my skin, restless. If Marcus succeeded, he wouldn't just take Lila—he'd take everything.
Behind me, Lila's voice broke through my thoughts. "You're hiding something."
I turned, my chest tightening at the determination in her eyes. She didn't flinch anymore. She'd seen too much for fear to control her.
"Tell me the truth, Ethan," she pressed. "What is he planning?"
I hesitated. But she deserved to know.
"He's gathering an army," I said finally. "He doesn't just want you, Lila. He wants my pack. My throne. And he'll burn the world to get it."
Her face paled, but she didn't look away. "Then we don't run. We fight."
My heart ached with pride—and fear. Because she had no idea the cost of war in our world.
Lila's POV
That night, sleep refused to come. Every shadow seemed to whisper Marcus's name, every rustle outside the cabin a warning.
Then, in the silence, I heard it.
Lila…
I sat up, pulse racing. The voice was faint, but it was him. Marcus.
"You can't protect her forever, Alpha." The words seemed to come from everywhere, echoing through the walls. "When you sleep, when you blink—she's mine."
I clutched the blanket, my chest tightening.
"Leave her alone!" I shouted into the darkness.
Ethan appeared instantly, golden eyes blazing. "What did you hear?"
I swallowed hard. "His voice. He was here."
But when Ethan searched the cabin, there was nothing. No scent. No trace.
Marcus was in our heads now.
Marcus's POV
From the edge of the forest, I smiled, watching their fear grow. They were strong together, yes—but fear was a poison. And I had plenty more to feed them.
My wolves waited in the shadows, hungry for blood. Soon, they would descend. But not yet.
First, I'd break their spirits.
Then I'd take what was mine.
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✨ End of Episode 48