The camp was quiet as dawn broke over the forest, the pale light casting long shadows across the clearing. The Blackwood wolves, weary but resilient, were gathering their strength after their latest victory. Lyla sat at the edge of the camp, staring into the forest as if it might offer her answers. The battle against the shadow had drained her, and though the forest’s magic still coursed through her veins, it felt heavier now, burdened by the weight of what was yet to come.

She glanced down ...