The pack was a hive of activity as preparations for the impending attack consumed every waking moment. Wolves reinforced defenses, sharpened weapons, and scouted the surrounding terrain for any signs of weakness. The weight of impending battle hung heavy in the air, a tangible force that pressed on them all.

Aurora limped through the camp, leaning on Cassian for support. The whispers of her diminished strength followed her like a shadow, but she ignored them, focusing instead on the task at hand.

Her healer, Sam, waited for her near the central fire. The elder wolf's silver hair gleamed in the firelight, and her calm demeanor was a steadying presence in the chaos.noveldrama

"Come sit," Sam said, motioning to a log beside her.

Aurora hesitated, then sank down gratefully, the strain on her body easing slightly. Sam handed her a cup of herbal tea, the fragrant steam curling upward.

"You look tired, my Luna," Sam said, her voice gentle but perceptive.

"I don't have the luxury of rest," Aurora replied, her tone edged with frustration.

Sam studied her for a long moment before speaking. "A leader's strength doesn't come from endless endurance. It comes from knowing when to lean on others. You're carrying too much alone." Aurora's eyes stung with unshed tears. "How can I not? The Pact is fading. The Lycan King is stronger than ever. And my child... my child is caught in the middle of it all."

Sa reached over, taking Aurora's hand in hers. "The child you carry is a beacon of hope. But hope is not without sacrifice. You must trust in those around you to help shoulder the burden." Aurora looked away, her jaw tightening. "And if I fail again?"

"Then you rise again," Sam said firmly. "Just as you always have."

Their conversation was interrupted by Selene, who approached with her usual air of impatience. "Aurora, we need to talk."

Sam's eyes narrowed. "She's barely had a moment to breathe."

"There's no time for comfort," Selene said, crossing her arms. "The Lycan King isn't waiting for us to sort through our feelings. If we don't act now, there won't be anything left to save." Aurora rose shakily, meeting Selene's sharp gaze. "What is it?"

Selene gestured toward the edge of the camp, where Anica was poring over maps with Nathan. "Anica has a lead on where the Pact's true heart might be hidden. It's our last chance to stop the Lycan King." Aurora frowned. "The Pact's true heart?"

Selene nodded. "Solara hinted at it. A place long forgotten, where the Pact's essence is strongest. If we can find it, we might be able to restore the balance." Aurora's stomach twisted. "And if we fail?"

Selene's expression darkened. "Then the Pact dies. And with it, everything we've fought for."

That night, as the camp settled into uneasy quiet, Aurora dreamed of Solara. The spirit's luminous form floated before her, its voice a soft echo.

"The heart of the Pact lies where light and shadow converge," Solara said. "But beware, Aurora. What you seek may demand more than you're willing to give." Aurora woke with a start, her pulse racing. Cassian stirred beside her, his hand reaching for hers.

"Another dream?" he asked, his voice thick with sleep.

She nodded, gripping his hand tightly. "We have to find the heart of the Pact. It's our only chance."