The early morning rays of sunlight filtered through the trees, casting long shadows across the ground. The packs, weary from their battle against the ghost rider, began to return to their respective territories, thinking the immediate danger had passed. However, a new threat was already brewing, hidden and insidious.
---
Silas stood by the edge of the forest, staring into the distance where his father's spirit had vanished. The battle had left him drained, both physically and emotionally. He took a deep breath, trying to center himself, but something felt wrong. A faint, whispering voice echoed in his mind, a remnant of the ghost rider's dark energy.
Marinetta approached him cautiously. "Silas, are you alright?"
Silas turned to her, forcing a smile. "I will be. It's just... I need some time to process everything."
She nodded, sympathy in her eyes. "We're here for you, no matter what."
