A Week Later.
After several hours of traveling, the forest gradually became denser.
The towering trees blocked most of the sunlight, leaving only scattered rays shining through the canopy. The cheerful atmosphere from earlier slowly faded away.
Vikram's expression became serious as he carefully observed his surroundings.
"This forest..." he muttered. "It feels different."
Kara nodded. "We're getting close to the Mist Pack's territory. The closer we get, the stronger the scent of werewolves becomes."
Carol suddenly stopped walking. "Wait."
Her usual playful expression disappeared as she looked toward the bushes ahead. "You two… do you hear that?"
The three immediately fell silent.
Rustle… Rustle...
The sound of something moving through the undergrowth echoed from several directions.
Vikram's eyes narrowed. "It's not the wind."
Kara slowly moved in front of Vikram, instinctively shielding him. Carol crouched slightly, her sharp eyes scanning the surrounding trees.
