Cassian's POV
"It seems the rival packs are finally moving in on us, Alpha," Luke's voice cut through my thoughts like a blade.
I exhaled deeply, leaning back in my chair as I pinched the bridge of my nose, frustration and exhaustion pooling behind my eyes.
First, there was that shadow of a wolf at the estate. Then Elias Thorne showed up at the eastern border. And now? Multiple packs pressing in from the north.
I allowed a small, bitter smile to curl at the edge of my lips.
I didn't want to admit it, but this prophecy was starting to get under my skin.
I glanced at Elara. She was already watching me. My heartbeat kicked up a notch.
"I can help," she said, voice soft but sure.
I frowned immediately. "No."
Her brow furrowed.
I knew she was strong—stronger than most. But that dream… I still couldn't shake it. The memory haunted me like a ghost clinging to my heels.
She huffed and crossed her arms. Cute.
Ever since that day in the cave, she'd changed. She was more open now. She laughed, she smiled at me—though she still got mad often enough. But there was warmth where before there was only frost. And gods, it was beautiful.
I looked up and caught the council members watching me with surprise. Only Leticia wore a knowing smile.
Clearing my throat, I leaned forward. "It's time to put our strongest alphas on the front lines."
They all nodded in agreement.
In the days that followed, security doubled, especially at the north gate—even though the estate was surrounded by a protective barrier. We weren't taking chances.
I was in my study, buried in reports, when Elara walked in. I immediately set the papers aside.
"Cassian…"
Gods, the way she said my name. It sent a shiver down my spine.
"You know I can help," she said, standing firm in front of my desk.
I frowned again. "I know. But I don't want you to."
"Why not?" Her eyes burned with challenge.
Because I haven't told you about the dream. Because seeing you die—again and again—breaks something in me.
But I couldn't say any of that. Not yet.
"It's nothing," I lied. "But I'm allowing you to volunteer—to help at the northern borders. Nothing more."
She scowled and turned away, storming out.
I sighed.
"That woman brings out more in me than I ever thought possible," I muttered, dragging a hand through my hair. And the worst part? I didn't even mind.
---
"We're ready, sir," Luke reported, stepping into my study.
"Good," I said, rising to follow him.
Outside, the warriors were assembled, standing tall in front of the estate. I'd decided to inspect the northern border personally.
I had just opened my mouth to give instructions when—
"I'm coming with you."
I didn't even need to turn to know who it was. My eye twitched.
"No, you're not," I said sharply.
But she stood her ground, arms folded.
Stubborn. Like a rebellious pup.
"Yes, I am," she insisted.
Around us, some of the wolves tried—and failed—to hide their amusement. I groaned and walked over to her.
"Elara, I don't know why you're so hell-bent on following me, but I won't allow it. The front line is dangerous. You're not just my mate. You're our Luna—and Selene's chosen messenger."
I reached out and touched her arm gently. Her cheeks flushed.
"But—"
"No buts. Go back inside."
"Let her come, Cassian," Leticia's voice floated from behind.
I turned to see her strolling toward us.
"What?" I growled.
"You can't keep her cooped up in this house forever," she said with a knowing smile.
Elara glanced at me smugly. I frowned harder.
"She's not ready."
"She looks ready to me," Leticia countered.
I looked to Luke for backup. He nodded. Traitor.
I sighed deeply.
"Fine," I relented. "But you stay close to me at all times. Is that clear?"
She beamed. Then shifted.
Her transformation still took my breath away—white fur like snow, bright blue eyes glowing with ethereal light.
Beautiful, I thought as I shifted into my larger, darker form beside her. My golden eyes scanned the land ahead as we moved toward the northern gate.
---
The northern forest was like the others—but the trees here seemed… darker.
I sniffed the air. Nothing but our own scent.
We shifted back to human form to inspect further. Elara stayed close. I considered telling her about the dream again—but was interrupted.
"We've found something, Alpha," one of the warriors called out.
I walked over and froze.
A clearing stretched before us, surrounded by scorched earth. Trees had been burned down to their roots.
This wasn't natural.
"This doesn't look like a forest fire," I said.
"It looks like magic, sir," Luke finished.
The burn marks formed a trail, leading directly toward—
"Our northern gate is at the end of this path, right?" I asked, though I already knew the answer.
"Yes, Alpha," Luke confirmed.
"Someone's trying to force the barrier open." His voice was low with anger.
My jaw clenched.
"Elara—" I turned, and my blood ran cold.
She was pale. Shaking. Her eyes wide with fear.
"Elara!" I rushed to her side.
"It's… it's…" Her voice was barely a whisper as she stumbled back.
I caught her in my arms, steadying her trembling frame.
Her breathing was erratic. My heart thudded with alarm.
"Elara, who?"
She clutched my arm. "The shadow," she whispered.
And I froze.
I looked up at Luke and the others. "We're going back."
There was more to this shadow wolf. And the fact that it could reduce my mate—my Luna—to this kind of terror...
No.
He was more than just an enemy now.
He was a target.
And I would kill him.