Madison nodded, squaring her shoulders. "Ready."
Wald took her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze as they walked through the fortress gates. The courtyard bustled with activity, werewolves of all ranks working together to clear debris and tend to the wounded. As they emerged, a hush fell over the crowd. Then, someone let out a cheer, and soon the air was filled with howls of celebration.
"Looks like word of our victory has spread," Wald murmured, a small smile tugging at his lips.
Madison felt overwhelmed by the outpouring of joy and relief. These werewolves had suffered under Karnath-Gor's reign of terror, and now they were free. She spotted familiar faces in the crowd – Astrid, grinning broadly despite a nasty gash on her cheek, and Roran, who gave them a respectful nod.