Chapter 88: The Prophecy
LUCIAN’S P.O.V.
The forest surrounding Grovefarm smelled of damp earth, pine, and an undercurrent of something bitter—magic. The scents swirled and grew stronger as I led my pack closer to the borders. Ares growled in anticipation, pacing within me, itching to break free and tear through whatever dared to harm my family while Raivo was just happy for the thrill of promised deaths.
We stopped at the edge of a clearing, the trees thinning enough for the moonlight to spill onto the figures waiting for us. Among them was Juliette, Her sleek brown fur bristled with tension. Her head was low, her body tense, and as I approached, she shifted back to her human form. Her eyes met mine, guilt etched into every tired line of her face.
I shifted into human form as well, the transformation seamless as my pack surrounded me.
"Lucian," she began, voice cracking, "this is Thaddeus territory. The witches have protective spells everywhere. I—I didn’t see this coming. I’m sorry I failed you, Alpha. I should’ve protected Teresa and the twins. I underestimated them. I was so focused on Adrian, I didn’t think to question our so-called allies."
Her words pierced through me like a blade. I clenched my fists, forcing Ares’ growls into submission. "Enough," I said sharply, but not unkindly. "We don’t have time for apologies, Juliette. Focus on getting Mai back. That’s all that matters now."
Juliette nodded solemnly, shifting back into her wolf form. I barked out orders. "Take five enforcers and scout the perimeter. Look for any weaknesses in their defenses."
"Yes, Alpha," she barked softly. Her fur bristled as she turned, five enforcers falling in line behind her as they melted into the shadows of the trees.
The rest of my wolves waited, their muscles taut, ready for my command. "Tear down those barriers!" I growled through the mind link. "Or die trying!"