The night loomed heavy around Alaric and James as they made their way through the forest that bordered the pack's territory, their footsteps silent against the thick underbrush. The world seemed to close in on them, dark shadows cast by twisted branches creating an almost suffocating ambiance. They knew they were venturing into the heart of enemy territory, a place that reeked of danger and where every sound could signal an impending threat.
Alaric scanned their surroundings, his senses sharpened as they drew closer to the pack's main house. He exchanged a tense glance with James, his mind racing. "This is it. From here, we split up. We don't have time to lose, and if we stay together, we risk being detected sooner," he murmured, barely audible in the quiet night.
James nodded, his jaw clenched, tension radiating off him in waves. "Just be careful, Alaric. I'll check the upper floors and see if she's being kept there. If I find her, I'll get her out immediately."
