Chapter 83:
I placed a hand on his shoulder, a small gesture of reassurance.
“Thank you. But I need you to trust that I’ll handle this. If Silas wants to test me, I’ll show him that Talon Pack is not so easily intimidated.”
Dante held my gaze, his expression softening with something close to pride.
“Then show him, Elara. Show him the strength of Talon.”
With that, I turned and made my way to the border, the quiet of the forest around me amplifying the sound of my own footsteps. As I neared the edge of Talon territory, I saw Silas waiting just beyond our land, his figure tall and unmistakable against the fading light.
He was alone, though I knew better than to trust appearances. Silas was cunning, ruthless, and it was likely he had his wolves hidden nearby, watching, waiting for any sign of weakness.
I stopped just inside our territory, keeping the border between us. Silas tilted his head, a slow, calculating smile spreading across his face as he took me in.
“Elara,” he said, his voice smooth, almost mocking.
“You came. I was beginning to think you’d ignore my message.”
“I’m here,” I replied evenly, not giving him the satisfaction of a reaction.
“What do you want, Silas?”
He laughed softly, a low, unsettling sound that seemed to echo through the trees.
“Straight to the point, as always. Very well.” His gaze hardened, a glint of challenge flashing in his eyes.
“I wanted to see for myself if the rumors were true—that Talon Pack’s new Alpha is nothing more than a child playing at leadership.”
I felt the insult like a spark to my nerves, but I forced myself to remain calm.
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“If that’s why you’ve come, then you’ve wasted your time.”
Silas’s smirk deepened.
“Oh, I don’t think so. You see, Elara, I’ve been watching. I know your pack is divided, that your wolves are uncertain of you, and I know that Dante’s presence has only complicated things further. You think you’re strong, but your pack is weak—and I’m here to take what should have been mine all along.”
I held his gaze, my expression unflinching.
“If you think Talon Pack will bow to you, you’re mistaken. We’re stronger than you realize, Silas. And if you cross that border, you’ll see just how strong we are.”
He chuckled, the sound filled with cruel amusement.
“I could cross that border right now, Elara, and your wolves wouldn’t stand a chance. But I’m not here to declare war. Not yet.” He leaned forward, his gaze narrowing.
“I’m here to give you a choice. Surrender your territory, and I’ll let your pack join mine under my rule. Resist, and I’ll make sure Talon Pack falls—piece by piece.”
The threat settled like a chill in my bones, but I refused to show any fear.
“You’re wasting your breath. Talon Pack will never submit to you.”
Silas’s smile faded, his expression darkening.
“Then I’ll enjoy watching you fall, Elara. One by one, I’ll turn your wolves against you, until there’s nothing left of Talon Pack but ashes and regret.”
I took a step forward, my voice steady and unyielding.
“You may be powerful, Silas, but you underestimate us. My wolves may be divided now, but they are loyal, and they will fight to protect this land. I may be young, but I am their Alpha. And when you come for us, you will face the full strength of Talon Pack.”
He studied me, his expression unreadable, as though trying to see if I would waver. But I didn’t. I held his gaze, refusing to flinch, to show even a hint of doubt.
Finally, he let out a slow, mocking clap.
“Impressive, Elara. You’ve learned how to make a speech.” He took a step back, his smile returning.
“Very well. If you won’t surrender, then I’ll see you on the battlefield. Prepare your pack, Alpha. Because when I come, I’ll leave nothing behind.”
