Chapter 118

Her smile didn’t reach her eyes.

“Silas’s ambition is hard to ignore. He may not have targeted Cedar Hollow directly, but his intentions are clear. If he succeeds in taking Talon and Ashfire, it won’t be long before he sets his sights on us.”

I nodded, understanding her reasoning but still wary.

“So you’re proposing an alliance? Cedar Hollow joining forces with Talon and Ashfire?”

“Yes,” Mara replied, her gaze steady.

“I offer warriors, supplies, and knowledge of the territory between our lands. But in return, I expect a measure of cooperation. My pack is loyal, and they are fighters, but they will not serve under anyone else’s command.”

Her words hung in the air, and I felt the weight of the conditions she was laying down. This wasn’t an alliance of submission; Mara wanted to be equal, her pack retaining its independence even as we fought together. It was a fair demand, but it was also one that would require delicate handling.