Chapter Thirty-Eight: The Rising Shadow
The dawn was crisp and clear, but an uneasy silence hung over Blackridge.
Rina returned from the glade, her flame steady and stronger, but her mind heavy with the spirit's warning.
Kael met her at the edge of the forest, concern etched on his face.
"Control," he said softly. "You can do this."
Before she could answer, a scout burst into the clearing, breathless.
"Alpha Rina! Strange markings found near the western border. Dark runes — not of our land."
Rina's gaze darkened.
"The raven woman is not alone," Kael said grimly.
"We must prepare," Rina replied. "The fight is far from over."
That night, as the pack gathered beneath the stars, Rina's eyes burned with determination.
The legacy of fire was hers to wield — and she would not let the shadows claim Blackridge.
But somewhere deep in the woods, a new darkness stirred, waiting for the right moment to strike.