The old family hunting grounds reeked of death and memories. Ancient trees stood like silent witnesses, their trunks scarred by silver blades and old blood. Naida moved through the underbrush beside Modric, her heart pounding in time with the bond. The united pack spread out around them—wolves and their new hunter-trained tactics ready for war.
“This is where it ends,” Modric said quietly, his storm-gray eyes scanning the darkness. “Your father’s ground. Our stand.”
Naida gripped her silver dagger tighter, the deeper mark on her neck burning with purpose. “He’ll be here. I have to face him.”
Modric caught her hand, squeezing once. “Together.”
The alliance struck first.
Blackthorn wolves howled from the north while hunters poured from the ridges, silver nets glinting under the moon. Gu
