ALARIC

I stood alone in my office, staring out the window at the dark forest.

The enemies are leading in the dark waiting for the right time to attack.

I had done what needed to be done, control restored, boundaries enforced and order maintained.

And yet, my chest felt tightened.

My wolf paced restlessly, snarling, clawing at my ribs. I could feel his claws scraping against my bones, his growl vibrating through my blood.

“You are losing her,” he growled.

“She disobeyed,” I muttered aloud, gripping the edge of the desk. “She is vulnerable. Surrounded by enemies who smile too easily. People are circling her, waiting for a moment of...