The morning was deceptively peaceful as Rachel walked beside Kylian through the outer territories.
She had insisted on joining him for the border inspection despite his initial hesitation. “I need to understand what’s happening,” she had told him quietly that morning. “I can’t stay locked inside forever, waiting for news.” After a long pause, Kylian had finally agreed, but only with strict conditions — four elite guards would flank them at all times, and she was not to stray more than a few feet from him.
The forest path wound through thick trees, sunlight filtering through the canopy in golden patches. Kylian pointed out defensive positions, explained patrol rotations, and showed her how the pack had reinforced weak points along the southern border. Rachel listened carefully, her hand r
