Malrik’s Warning
The tension in Crimson Fang was palpable, the air heavy with anticipation of war. The faint rustle of leaves was interrupted by the pounding of a scout’s hurried steps. He arrived at the war room, his breathing ragged as every eye turned to him.
“Malrik’s forces are larger than expected,” he reported, his voice grim. “Hundreds of rogues, shadow wolves, and mercenaries. He’s amassed an army unlike anything we’ve faced.”
Draven’s growl rumbled through the room, low and threatening. “Let him come,” he snarled, his claws flexing at his sides. “He won’t touch her. Not while I breathe.”
The scout hesitated, glancing nervously between Draven and Isla. “He sent a message,” he added, his tone faltering. “Malrik says… ‘Surrender Isla, or everyone dies.’”
Isla’s chest tightened, but she stepped forward, her silver eyes shining with determination. She placed a calming hand on Draven’s arm, grounding him. “We’ll fight,” she said, her voice steady. “Together. He doesn’t get to dictate our future.”
Draven met her gaze, his amber eyes burning with fierce devotion. “He won’t take you, Isla. I’ll burn his army to the ground before that happens.”
In the corner of the room, Eira stood silently, her emerald eyes narrowing as she listened. When the scout finished his report, she stepped forward, her presence commanding. “The twins,” she said. “They can’t stay here. If Malrik knows of their existence, they’ll become his first target.”
Isla’s breath caught. “What do you mean?”
“I mean I’ll take them to safety,” Eira said, her voice calm and assured. “You and Draven will fight unburdened, knowing they’re protected.”
Draven hesitated, his fists clenching. “And we’re supposed to trust you to keep them safe?”
Kaelen interjected, his golden eyes steady. “She’s right. The battlefield is no place for children. Eira is more than capable.”
Isla nodded reluctantly, though her heart ached at the thought of being separated from her children. “Fine,” she said quietly. “But only until this is over. I’ll come for them as soon as it’s safe.”
Later, in the dead of night, Isla approached Micah, who had been tending to the twins. “You’re taking them,” Isla whispered, her voice firm.
Micah’s gray eyes widened in surprise. “Me? Isla, I—”
“You’ll take them to my parents’ pack,” Isla interrupted, her voice leaving no room for argument. “It’s the safest place. Malrik would never think to look for them there. Promise me, Micah. Promise you’ll protect them.”
Micah nodded solemnly, her gaze unwavering. “With my life.”
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