Azura's POV
The rest of the pack was still asleep when we met outside the pack house. The air was biting and cold, sharp enough to make my lungs burn with every breath. It smelled strongly of damp pine needles and the sweet, heavy scent of dew clinging to the grass.
I stood off to the side, away from the chatter, keeping my arms crossed tightly over my chest to fight off the chill. I just wanted to watch, to keep my distance while everyone got ready to leave.
Genevieve was already on her horse. It was a beautiful chestnut color, its coat shining even in the dim light. She looked completely relaxed, sitting straight and tall in the saddle, like this was just a comfortable morning ride rather than a dangerous mission.
The horse was restless, pawing at the dirt with a sharp hoof, but Genevieve calmed it with just a gentle nudge of her leg. She was calm and regal, a queen prepared for battle.
