Chapter 29: Shadows of the Wild
The horn's deep, resonant wail cut through the crisp morning air like a blade, echoing off the towering pines and stone walls of the Nightshade compound. It was a sound that pierced the soul, low and ominous, vibrating in Sophia's chest as if the ground itself were rumbling in warning. She froze mid-step, her conversation with Brynhild and Caspian forgotten in an instant. The laughter and chatter of the pack, so lively just moments ago, died away, replaced by a tense, electric silence.
Orion's demeanor shifted immediately like a storm overtaking the clouds, his broad shoulders tensed, his jaw set in a hard line, the easy amusement from the chase with Ronan vanishing as if it had never been.
Ronan mirrored him, his playful grin evaporating into a focused scowl. Even Caspian, who had been all smiles and knowing glances, lost the warmth in his eyes, his face hardening into the mask of a man who had seen too many battles.
