Emilia's wrist throbbed under Ryker's grip as he pulled her through the forest. The darkness seemed to swallow them whole, shadows twisting into menacing shapes.
"Where are we going?" Emilia demanded, trying to keep pace.
Ryker navigated the dense foliage with ease. "A sanctuary, hidden from prying eyes."
The trees parted, revealing a clearing. A rustic cabin stood, firelight flickering in the windows. Smoke drifted lazily into the night air.
Inside, Emilia found a room filled with ancient artifacts and strange symbols etched into the walls. Luca, the werewolf, stood by the fire, his gaze locked onto hers.
"Ryker says you're ready to know the truth," Luca said, his voice low and raspy.
Emilia's grip on the crossbow tightened. "What truth?"
Luca's gaze never wavered. "About the ancient pact between humans and werewolves."
Ryker leaned against the wall, his eyes fixed on Emilia. "A delicate balance, maintained by guardians like your father."
Emilia's mind reeled. "What happened to my father?"
Ryker's expression turned somber. "He was betrayed by one of his own."
Emilia's heart pounded. "Who?"
Ryker's gaze locked onto hers. "That's what we need to find out."
The fire crackled, casting flickering shadows on the walls. Emilia sensed a change within herself, a transformation sparked by Ryker's words.
As she stood there, Emilia realized she had two choices: trust Ryker and Luca or flee into the unknown.
The darkness outside seemed to press in, eager to claim her.
Emilia's decision would change everything.