The forest grew darker and quieter the closer they got to the Lycan King's staging ground. Aurora moved at the front of the group, her blade glowing faintly with the energy of the Celestial Pact. Behind her, Cassian, Nathan, and a handful of trusted wolves followed, their steps silent as they navigated the treacherous terrain. "Keep sharp," Nathan murmured, his voice barely audible. "We're deep in his territory now."
Aurora nodded, her senses attuned to every sound and movement. The bond to the Pact pulsed faintly in her chest, its warmth both a comfort and a warning. She could feel the weight of the energy around them, oppressive and unnatural, like a storm waiting to break. Cassian moved closer, his voice low. "How are you holding up?"
"I'm fine," Aurora replied, though her hands trembled slightly around the hilt of her blade.
Cassian didn't look convinced, but he didn't press her. "Just remember, we're here for each other. You're not doing this alone."
The group reached a clearing where the forest opened up to reveal a jagged cliff face. At its base was the largest fissure they had seen yet, its sickly green glow illuminating the area with an eerie light. Shadow beasts prowled nearby, their movements restless and agitated as if sensing the impending battle.
"That's it," Anica said, their golden eyes narrowing. "That's the source."
Aurora's chest tightened as she stared at the fissure. The energy radiating from it was overwhelming, pressing against her like a physical force.
Nathan scanned the area, his expression grim. "He's not here. This feels wrong."noveldrama
"It's a trap," Cassian said, his voice low.
Aurora tightened her grip on her blade. "Then we spring it."
The group moved into position, fanning out around the clearing. Nathan and Anica took the lead, drawing the attention of the shadow beasts with swift, coordinated strikes. The creatures howled in fury, their glowing eyes fixed on the intruders as they lunged.
Cassian stayed close to Aurora, his movements precise as he cut down any beast that got too close. The energy of the Celestial Pact surged within her, guiding her strikes as she focused on the fissure.
"This is it," Anica called over the chaos. "Once it's closed, his power will weaken."
Aurora raised her blade, the golden light radiating from it intensifying as she channeled the bond's energy. But as she prepared to strike, the air around her shifted, growing colder and heavier.