Chapter 95:
“Food, supplies, anything we can spare. We’ll also commit warriors to defend Ashfire territory if Silas threatens you in the future.”
Torrin considered this, his gaze sharp.
“And what about leadership? If our forces combine, who leads? You or me?”
The question was a loaded one, and I knew that the wrong answer could end this alliance before it began. But I also knew that Talon Pack wouldn’t submit, not even to Torrin. I had to find a way to make him see us as equals, as partners.
“We lead together,” I replied, holding his gaze.
“We make decisions as a unit. Both packs retain their independence, their leadership, but we fight as one. I have no interest in undermining you, Torrin, and I expect the same in return.”
He stared at me, a flicker of surprise crossing his face. It was a fair offer, a partnership built on mutual respect rather than dominance. And while Torrin was a proud Alpha, I knew he valued practicality over ego.
Finally, after a long silence, he nodded.
“Agreed. If Talon Pack holds up its end, Ashfire will stand beside you. We’ll bring our warriors, our strength, and our loyalty. But know this, Elara—I won’t tolerate weakness. If you falter, if your wolves fall behind, Ashfire will withdraw.”
I nodded, relief mingling with determination.
“Understood. But I assure you, Talon Pack will not falter.”
With that, the alliance was sealed. Torrin extended his hand, and I took it, feeling the weight of the commitment settle over me. This alliance was uneasy, built on necessity rather than trust, but it was a step forward—a chance to face Silas with a force he could not ignore.
As we parted ways, Dante and I began the journey back to Talon territory, the weight of our new alliance pressing down on us both. I glanced at him, sensing the relief and pride in his expression.
“You handled that well,” he said quietly.
“Torrin’s not an easy Alpha to sway, but you gave him respect and strength. That’s all he needed.”
I nodded, a small smile breaking through the tension.
“This alliance won’t be easy. But with Ashfire beside us, we stand a chance.”
We walked in silence, the weight of what lay ahead settling over us like a storm. The battle would come, and it would come soon. But now, Talon Pack was not alone. With Ashfire by our side, we were stronger than ever—a force bound not by friendship, but by a shared determination to protect our lands and our wolves.
Silas would come, expecting us to break, to crumble under his might. But he would find us united, prepared, and stronger than he had ever anticipated.
And together—with Talon and Ashfire standing as one—we would make him regret ever challenging us.
POV: Elara
The compound was alive with a new energy when we returned from the Hollow, our alliance with Ashfire Pack officially in place. Word had spread quickly, and I could feel the shift in the air—the wolves of Talon Pack now walked with a sense of purpose, a renewed confidence. We were no longer fighting alone. The alliance with Ashfire was a lifeline, a surge of strength that bolstered not only our numbers but also our morale.
But I knew this alliance wasn’t without its risks. Torrin and his wolves were formidable, and while they brought valuable skills and experience, they were also fiercely independent. I couldn’t afford to let any divisions linger or rivalries simmer. The success of our defense would depend on our ability to function as a single, united force. And that meant building bonds not only within Talon Pack but between Talon and Ashfire as well.
The morning after Torrin’s wolves arrived, I gathered the pack for a joint training session in the main compound. I felt a mix of anticipation and tension radiating from the wolves as they assembled—Talon wolves on one side, Ashfire on the other—each pack’s warriors sizing up the newcomers with cautious eyes.
