Chapter 39: Shadows at the Gate
Ava's POV:
The Shadow Brotherhood's army loomed at our borders, their dark banners flapping in the wind. Kael's eyes locked onto mine, his jaw set.
"We'll defend our pack," he vowed.
Sabine stood beside us, her sword at the ready. "We'll fight together, as one."
Valtor's gaze swept the horizon. "Their army is larger than expected. We'll need to strategize."
Kaida's eyes narrowed. "I'll take care of their scouts. We can't let them breach our defenses."
As Kaida disappeared into the shadows, I felt a surge of determination. For my pack, for my child, I would fight.
The battle commenced, our warriors clashing with the Shadow Brotherhood's soldiers. I fought alongside Kael and Sabine, our movements fluid.
But amidst the chaos, I sensed a presence. A dark, malevolent force.
"Cassius," I whispered.
Kael's eyes snapped toward me. "Where?"
I pointed to the Shadow Brotherhood's command center. "He's there."
Kael's expression turned grim. "I'll take care of him."
Sabine's hand on his arm stayed him. "Not alone, Kael."
Together, we charged toward the command center.
Cassius' POV:
I stood beside the Shadow Brotherhood's leader, my heart heavy with doubt.
"Ava and Kael are pushing forward," the leader observed. "Prepare the trap."
My gut twisted. What trap?
The leader's smile sent shivers down my spine. "The prophecy will soon be ours."
I knew then I had to act. But would I be too late?
As Ava and Kael approached, I steeled myself. Would I be able to protect them, or would my loyalty be tested?
Ava's POV:
We stormed the command center, swords drawn. Cassius stood before us, his eyes conflicted.
"Cassius, what's going on?" Kael demanded.
Cassius hesitated before speaking. "The Shadow Brotherhood has set a trap. Ava."
Suddenly, the ground gave way beneath us. We plummeted into darkness.
Kael's roar echoed through the abyss. "Ava!"
I landed hard, dazed. As my vision cleared, I saw Kael and Sabine beside me.
We were trapped.