The news of the confirmed rogue encampment, along with Elara's unwavering conviction about its size and fortification, sent ripples of alarm through the River Pine Pack. The tension, already present, escalated into a palpable sense of impending conflict. Maddox called for an immediate meeting of his closest advisors and the pack's most seasoned warriors.
"We are no longer dealing with scattered stragglers," Maddox stated, his voice resonating with alpha authority. "This is an organized force, with a leader and a base of operations. And their attacks are growing bolder. We cannot afford to wait for them to come to us."
The consensus was clear: they had to strike first. But a frontal assault on a fortified position was suicide. Strategy was paramount. The days that followed were a whirlwind of preparations. Scouts were sent out repeatedly, using Elara's mental map as a guide, gathering more detailed intelligence on the Whisperwood and the approaches to the rogue lair. They meticulously mapped out the terrain, noting every hidden path, every choke point.
Elara found herself at the heart of the strategic planning. Her ability to sense the flow of energy and project images became invaluable. She could mentally guide the scouts, helping them navigate the treacherous woods, identifying patrols, and confirming the layout of the encampment. She described the faint, unsettling aura of the rogue leader, a blend of cold ambition and raw power, making their opponent feel more real, more dangerous.
Training intensified for the River Pine warriors. They drilled tirelessly, focusing on stealth, coordinated attacks, and maneuvers that would allow them to navigate the dense forest. Maddox emphasized teamwork and discipline, knowing that superior numbers would mean little without precision. They practiced silent communication, crucial for operating in an environment where even a rustle of leaves could betray their presence.
Beyond the physical preparations, there was a spiritual element. The pack elders held nightly ceremonies, invoking the Moon Goddess for protection and strength. Elara participated, her own connection to Lyra and the surge of her power deepening with each passing day. She felt the pack's anxieties, their fears, but also their fierce loyalty and their unwavering resolve. The war was coming, and River Pine was preparing to meet it head-on, their Alpha's unique mate now their most potent, and most ethereal, weapon.