Chapter

200

The pack gathered in the central clearing, the mood somber as the details of the plan were revealed. Cassian's reaction was immediate, his voice sharp with anger.

"You want to send Elyra away? To a world where we can't protect her?" he said, his fists clenched at his sides.

Aurora placed a calming hand on his arm. "She deserves a chance at a life without fear," she said softly. "And so does Dain."

Cassian's expression faltered, his anger giving way to anguish. "You're asking us to give up our daughter, Aurora. How can you be so calm about this?"

"I'm not calm," Aurora admitted, her voice trembling. "But I know it's the only way to keep her safe. I can't lose her, Cassian. I won't."

Cassian exhaled slowly, his shoulders sagging. "Then we'll do it together. But I don't like it."

When Elyra and Dain were told of the plan, their reactions were predictably defiant.

"I don't need to hide," Dain said, his young voice ringing with bravado. "I can fight."

"You're too young," Fenrir said sternly, his tone brooking no argument. "This isn't about pride-it's about survival."

Elyra clung to Aurora, her silver eyes wide with fear. "Do I have to go?" she whispered.

Aurora knelt before her, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Just for a little while, my love," she said, her voice thick with emotion. "You'll be safe, and one day, you'll come home."

Selene worked tirelessly to create the portal, weaving powerful spells to ensure the children's safety. The swirling vortex shimmered with a strange, otherworldly light, its edges humming with energy.

"This will sever their connection to the Pact and hide them from the Lycan King," Selene explained. "They'll have no memory of this world, at least until the time is right."

The moment came far too quickly. Aurora hugged Elyra tightly, her tears soaking into her daughter's silver hair.

"Stay strong, little one," she whispered. "I'll see you again when our world is safe."

Fenrir crouched before Dain, his hand gripping his son's shoulder. "Be brave," he said, his voice rough with emotion. "And look after her."

Dain nodded, his usual bravado tempered by the weight of the moment.

The portal began to glow brighter, the air crackling with magic. Aurora and Cassian stood side by side, watching as the children stepped through. Elyra turned back one last time, her small face etched with fear and hope. Then the portal closed, leaving an empty space where the children had stood.

Aurora's knees buckled, and Cassian caught her, his arms steady and comforting. Fenrir stood motionless, his face a mask of pain.

"We'll make sure they have a home to return to," Cassian said quietly, his voice steady.

Aurora nodded, her tears falling silently as she stared at the place where the portal had been, her heart breaking even as she resolved to fight for her daughter's future.noveldrama