The midday sky seemed far too calm.
The sun hung high above the eastern forest, shining down on ground covered in shadows from tall trees. Yet even though bright light touched every corner of the forest, the atmosphere among the wolves felt heavy.
No one spoke after the black wolf's body fell still once more.
The message that had come from the creature's mouth still echoed in all their minds.
"The Shadow Kings… are coming."
Aurelia stood motionless a few steps away from the body. Her gaze remained fixed on the ground, but her thoughts were far away.
Lucien watched her face carefully.
"Are you alright?"
Aurelia took a slow breath before answering.
"No."
The answer was honest.
Lucien was not surprised.
He turned to look at the black wolf's body, now truly lifeless.
"A message like that isn't made carelessly."
Cassian knelt again beside the body, examining the symbol that had now cracked.
"This is a communication ritual."
