|| ASHER's POV ||

As the news of Athena's attack reached my ears, a surge of concern washed over me like a tidal wave, driving all other thoughts from my mind. "Are you sure?" I demanded, my voice sharp with urgency as I turned to the messenger who stood before me.

The messenger nodded, his expression grim with worry. "Yes, Alpha Asher," he confirmed, his voice tinged with unease. "Athena was found injured near the edge of the forest. We don't know who attacked her, but we suspect it may have been someone from a rival pack."

I felt a cold knot of dread settle in the pit of my...