Chapter 21: A Race Against Time

Aveline ran through the serious forest, her heart pounding as Gabriel's words echoed in her mind. "The Shadow Council isn't the only enemy you need to worry about. Not everyone in your pack is who they appear to be."

Her pack was in danger, but she couldn't ignore the constant question, was Gabriel warning her out of genuine concern, or was this part of a deeper manipulation? Doubt filled in her chest, but there was no time to falter. She had to get back.

As she neared her pack's borders, a faint howl sounded through the quietness. A patrol. The sound should have comforted her, but something about it felt off. The howls were short, hurried, and serious.

Aveline slowed her pace, creeping low to stay hidden. She crept toward the tree line, her sharp eyes checking for movement. The patrol wolves moved in irregular patterns, their heads moving toward every sound. The usual confidence of her pack's guardians was replaced with unease.