Chapter 13: Fangs and Thunder
The wind howled across the hills surrounding Greystone, carrying with it the scent of smoke, sweat, and fear. Though Lucas's speech the day before had rekindled hope in the hearts of many, not all could ignore the looming threat of the incoming Tide. Preparations were underway, and soldiers moved with purpose across the fields and walls. Yet a strange tension still hung in the air, heavy as a stormcloud.
Just past dawn, the alarm bell tolled from the southern gate.
Reynard rushed to the wall, sword sheathed but hand resting near the hilt. He peered down the hill, where a group of twenty figures approached through the mist. They were not human. Fur-covered ears twitched, tails flicked, and sharp eyes gleamed. Beastkin.
The guards raised their weapons. Reynard waved a hand. "Hold. They don't come as enemies."
As the group came into full view, their leader stepped forward. A tall, muscular woman with striped fur covering parts of her face and arms. Her eyes were golden and predatory, her steps silent and confident. Beside her padded a massive saber cat with lightning crackling faintly along its fangs.
She raised a hand. "I am Kaela of the Stormfang tribe. We seek shelter from the coming Tide."
Reynard narrowed his eyes. "You come with beasts."
Kaela gestured toward Thunderfang. "My soul-bound companion. As your lord is with his own. We mean no harm, only sanctuary."
Lucas arrived just as the gates were opening. Zephyra circled above, Umbra close behind, ever silent. Elira walked beside him, her face pale but focused. The poison from the ape scouts had taken a toll, but she bore it without complaint.
Lucas stepped forward. "You seek shelter? You'll find it. But understand that this is Greystone. We don't take in wolves who plan to eat the flock."
Kaela sniffed the air, her feline senses analyzing him. "You're strong. But strength doesn't make a leader."