Luna Aurora (Alpha Fenrir)

Chapter 56

The morning after their night together, Cassian rose early, careful not to wake Aurora as she slept curled under the blanket of soft light filtering into the cabin. He dressed quickly, his mind already turning to the tasks at hand. Magnus was out there, and every moment they waited only gave him more time to grow stronger.

By the time Aurora woke, the camp was buzzing with activity. The smell of cooking fires filled the air, and wolves moved purposefully, their tension palpable. She stepped outside to find Iris already tending to the injured by the healer's quarters. "Morning," Iris called, her voice cheerful despite the strain in her expression.

Aurora offered a small smile. "Busy as always?"

Iris nodded, gesturing to a stack of bandages. "Help me with these. The patrols brought back a few injured from last night's skirmish."

Aurora hesitated, then moved to join her. As they worked, her mind wandered to Cassian, to the warmth of his arms and the promise he'd made. She pushed the thoughts aside, focusing instead on the rhythmic task of folding cloth.

In the war room, Cassian stood with Nathan and Gideon, their expressions grim as they reviewed the latest reports.

"The scouts have confirmed movement near the mountain pass," Nathan said, his tone sharp. "Magnus's forces are consolidating faster than we anticipated. Fenrir's rogues have joined them." Cassian's jaw tightened. "How long before they're ready to strike?"

"A week, maybe less," Nathan replied. "They've been seen constructing siege weapons. This isn't just an attack-it's an invasion."

Gideon crossed his arms, his frown deepening. "And we're supposed to hold them off with what? Half our warriors are injured, and the eastern reinforcements are still days away."

"We don't have a choice," Cassian said firmly. "We hold the line, or we fall."

Nathan hesitated. "There's something else."

to him, his gaze sharp.

overheard Magnus's men talking about a weapon. Something... different. They wouldn't say what it was, but whatever it is, they seemed confident it would guarantee their victory." Cassian's eyes narrowed. "Get

wore on, Aurora found herself drawn to the edge of the camp, where the northern patrols were preparing to leave. She watched as the wolves checked their weapons, their

joining them?" he asked,

at him, her expression serious. "I was thinking about how

"It's what we do. Protecting the pack comes

what about you?" she asked, her voice trembling.

Cassian didn't answer. Then he reached out, his hand brushing against hers.

could

news from

instantly. "What

hesitated, glancing at Aurora. "It's better if you hear it

for Aurora to stay behind. "Wait

**

the war room, the scout stood trembling under Cassian's

the scout stammered. "Magnus's men are working with... something supernatural. It's not just

If Magnus had enlisted

Cassian demanded, his voice

replied. "But enough to tip the balance in their