The destruction of the marshland altar struck another blow to Erebus's plans, but it was a hollow victory. The werewolves returned to Valewood, battered and burdened. Every altar they destroyed seemed to extract a heavier toll, both physically and mentally. Luca felt it in the silence of the group as they made their way back to the estate.
They were greeted by Donovan, who took one look at the weary team and ordered medics to tend to their wounds.
"You succeeded," Donovan said to Luca, his tone equal parts relief and concern.
"Barely," Luca replied, his voice rough. "It's getting harder. Erebus isn't just guarding the altars—he's adapting."
"We'll adapt faster," Donovan said firmly.
But Luca wasn't sure how much longer they could keep pushing. He wondered if fate was toying with them, as the fight with the vampires continues to linger despite their numerous victories.
---
In the war room, the Alaric family leaders gathered to discuss the implications of their latest mission. A map of Valewood and its surroundings was spread across the table, with red markers denoting the locations of destroyed altars.
"That's another altar down," Garrick said, tapping one of the markers. "But the question remains—how many more are there?"
"The Circle mentioned five fragments," Eva said, joining the discussion. "If the altars are tied to those fragments, then there are two left."
"That's a big assumption," Magnus growled. "What if there's more than five? We'll be running in circles forever."
Marla crossed her arms, her sharp eyes narrowing. "We don't have time for hypotheticals. Every altar we destroy weakens Erebus. We focus on what we know and deal with the rest later."
Donovan raised a hand, quieting the debate. "Luca, you and your team have been at the center of this fight. What do you think?"
Luca hesitated, feeling the weight of their expectations. "I think Eva's right. If the fragments are tied to the altars, then we're making progress. But Erebus isn't going to sit back and let us finish the job. He'll come after us harder than ever."
Donovan nodded. "We have managed to keep them at bay for centuries, this wouldn't be an exception. If it's war they crave, we are prepared for war."
---
That night, Luca quietly climbed to the estate's rooftop, staring at the moonlit city below. The weight of the fight was crushing, and for the first time, doubt crept into his mind.
Eva joined him, silent for a moment before speaking. "You're carrying too much on your shoulders, you know."
"I don't have a choice," Luca replied. "If we fail…"
"We won't," Eva interrupted. Her voice was steady, but her gaze was intense. "Because we can't afford to. This isn't just about us—it's about everyone who calls this city home. And they're counting on us."
Luca sighed, a small smile breaking through his grim expression. "You always know what to say."
"That's because I know you," Eva said with a smirk. "Now get some rest. We'll need it."
---
The next morning, news arrived that shook the werewolf families to their core. A scout from the eastern territories stumbled into the estate, injured and breathless.
"They're coming," the scout rasped, clutching his side.
"Who?" Donovan demanded.
"Erebus's forces," the scout replied. "Hundreds of them. Heading straight for Valewood."
The war room erupted into chaos as the leaders scrambled to assess the situation.
"This was always his plan," Garrick said, his tone grim. "We've been so focused on the altars, we didn't see the bigger picture. He's forcing our hand."
"If Erebus attacks in full force, we won't be able to hold them off," Magnus said. "Not without help."
"Then we call for reinforcements," Donovan said. "Reach out to the northern packs and the Circle of Elders. Tell them we need every able fighter they can spare."
"What about the civilians?" Eva asked.
"We evacuate them," Donovan said without hesitation. "Get them out of the city and to the safe zones we've established. We don't want them anywhere here when things begin to get ugly."
---
Preparations began immediately. Patrols were doubled, weapons were distributed, and evacuation plans were put into motion. Luca and Eva led efforts to fortify the estate, turning it into a makeshift stronghold.
As the city braced for the coming assault, tensions ran high. Families said their goodbyes, not knowing if they would see each other again.
---
On the eve of the battle, Donovan called a meeting with the family leaders and key fighters.
"This is it," Donovan said, his voice steady despite the weight of his words. "Erebus is bringing the fight to us, but that doesn't mean we're powerless. We've trained for this. We've prepared for this. And no matter what happens, we stand together. Those blood. Sucker's will feel our wrath."
The room erupted in a chorus of agreement, the werewolves' howls echoing through the halls.
---
As dawn broke, Erebus's army appeared on the horizon—a massive force of vampires, shadow creatures, and other supernatural horrors.
Luca stood on the front lines with Eva, Erik, and Kira, their weapons ready. The shard was secured deep within the estate, guarded by a select group of warriors.
"Ready for this?" Eva asked, her voice steady despite the fear in her eyes.
"Always," Luca replied.
The first wave of vampires charged, and the battlefield erupted into chaos.