Chapter 35

“They need to hear it from you.”

I nodded, taking the scroll with steady hands, even as my stomach knotted. The faint but unmistakable scent of blood clung to the parchment, and I couldn’t help but wonder whose it was. My eyes scanned the words, each one tightening the knot in my chest.

Drawing a deep breath, I began to read, my voice carrying over the clearing:

“To Elara and the remnants of Talon Pack:

You’ve held your ground longer than I expected, but even wolves like you must understand when the fight is lost. Surrender your territory and your leadership to me, and I may spare those who kneel. Refuse, and I will tear your pack apart piece by piece until there is nothing left but ashes.

You have until the next full moon to decide. – Silas”

The words hung in the air after I finished reading, sinking deeply into the hearts of everyone present. Around me, the pack murmured, their voices rising in a mix of anger, fear, and defiance.