Aria's POV
I decided to go on a border patrol with Viktor and a few of my men. The moment I was halfway through the Northern Ridge, Lydia's ears perked inside my mind.
Something is wrong, Aria.
I slowed my steps.
The forest was too quiet. There were no birds, not even the distant rustle of small animals moving through the undergrowth. The silence pressed against my skin, setting every instinct in me on edge.
I scanned the trees around me, one hand resting near my weapon. "Stay alert," I told the patrol members behind me. "Something doesn't feel right."
Lydia growled softly. We're being watched.
I barely had time to react. A metallic click came from somewhere ahead. Then the forest exploded. Several silver bolts tore through the trees.
"Everyone get down! It's an ambush."
I threw m
