The camp was alive with frenzied activity as Diane oversaw the preparations for her warparty's departure. Wolves rushed to and fro, gathering supplies and checking weapons while anxious mutters rippled through the ranks. Despite her rousing words of reassurance earlier, it was clear many still harbored doubts in the wake of Zakar's vile insinuations.

Elena pressed through the commotion, making a beeline for her alpha with a look of consternation etched across her features. "Diane, a word?"

Diane kept her eyes focused on the busy arming racks as a swordsmith inspected her blade. "If it's another plea to reconsider this mission, you can spare your breath, Elena. My mind is...