Gathering Allies, Old and New

"Let's get some rest," she said. "Tomorrow's going to be a long day."

As the sun rose the next morning, Madison and Wald were already up and preparing for the arrival of their messengers. The village buzzed with nervous energy as everyone waited for news.

Astrid was the first to return, looking tired but triumphant. "The northern clans have agreed to join us," she announced to the gathered crowd. "They'll be here within the week with five hundred warriors."

A cheer went up from the assembled werewolves. Madison felt a spark of hope ignite in her chest. Perhaps they really could do this.

Roran arrived next, with mixed news from the western territories. "Some of the clans are too afraid to fight," he reported. "But I managed to convince three of the larger packs to join us. They're sending about three hundred fighters."