Archer

"Finally all done." I stretch my arms.

The breathless relief of finishing exams faded swiftly once we stepped from grounds onto the winding path home, all comfort of the familiar now corrupted by malevolent shadows stirring just out of sight.

Home no longer offered sanctuary from gathering storms, but plunged straight towards their blackened heart.

Keegan's grim face reflected the dread gnawing my own composure. But he regarded Alex and I with gruff encouragement. "No matter the sickness festering in the pack, we stand together now. Bonds tested are tempered strongest."

"Okay," I managed tight nod in response, taking small comfort in the resolve emanating from my mentor's weary...