Chapter 43

We were just about to enter Demtree, my private domain, when a sudden commotion drew everyone’s attention. From the edge of the treeline, a Werewolf came bolting through the woods, howling in sharp, urgent tones.

The moment his howls echoed through the air, every commander present emerged from their stations and gathered near me. Their instincts were razor-sharp; this wasn’t a simple message—it was a warning.

The werewolf skidded to a halt, his chest heaving, and let out a complex sequence of howls—a communication code only known to the pack. His fur bristled with tension, his claws twitching as he finished the last signal.

Ravrik, one of my most seasoned commanders, stiffened, his face going pale for a split second before he barked orders. “Everyone, prepare for battle. Soundless march protocol.”

As soon as Ravrik’s voice rang out, the rest of the commanders dispersed without a word, issuing their own silent orders with hand signals and mind-link communications. The entire command structure activated like a well-oiled machine.

I stepped toward Ravrik, my voice firm.
“Ravrik, report. What’s going on? Tell me everything.”

He turned to me grimly.
“Asher ... a force equivalent to three commanders’ worth of troops has been sighted just beyond the eastern border. The scout—one of our own—was on his usual perimeter run and spotted them. Worse, a royal-grade chariot has been seen heading directly toward the castle. They’re not hiding anymore.”

I took a deep breath, forcing myself to focus. My voice cut through the rising tension.
“Alright. Execute the following immediately—”

I raised my hand and began issuing my own commands:
“All werewolves: begin forest sweep. Retrieve every civilian and child—no exceptions. Bring them back to safety immediately.”
“Ravrik: relay this to all divisions—do not wait to assemble at the castle. As soon as a unit is combat-ready, they move to the border zone but remain hidden. Do not reveal yourselves unless absolutely necessary, or unless I give the signal myself.”
“Send out advanced scouts in all directions. I want to know if this force is a distraction and whether another army is closing in from any other flank.”

Ravrik nodded, saluted sharply, and ran off to relay the message.

Then I turned toward Cassie, whose face had gone tight with concern.
“Cassie, go. Take the southern route to my chambers. Have my battle armor prepared immediately—and make sure my weapons are laid out.”

Without wasting a breath, she turned and sprinted off, her form disappearing around the corner of a tall watchtower.

I finally turned back to the heart of the command post—and found Brakthar, already armored and armed, standing beside me like a silent guardian.

He met my gaze with unwavering resolve, all four arms flexing with readiness.
“Brakthar ready. Brakthar follow. Brakthar protect.”

I placed a hand on his shoulder.
“This might be it, old friend. Be ready to act fast—and hit hard.”

He nodded once. “Brakthar break enemies.”

I looked out at the commanders rallying, at the distant soldiers vanishing into the forest.

I sprinted toward the north gate, shouting at every soldier I saw to get ready for battle. Brakthar was right behind me, matching my pace with ease, his four arms tensed, ready for action.

Near the stables, I spotted Kaelis speaking with a commander. I skidded to a halt in front of him and quickly explained the situation. His face turned grim as he processed the urgency of my words. Without delay, he began issuing orders and ran off toward his chamber to prepare for combat.

Within moments, the entire castle was abuzz with activity. Horns were sounded, armor was donned, weapons distributed. Soldiers ran in tight formations while the castle maids and staff secured the interior.

Once I had dressed in my battle attire and draped the Phoenix Feather Cloak over my shoulders, I headed to the throne room. I arrived earlier than expected. Gauriash was already there, calm but alert. We took our seats, ready to face whatever storm was heading our way.

Brakthar stood behind me, arms folded tightly across his broad chest, his expression carved from fury. The tension in the air was thick—no one said a word.

One by one, the other court members filed in. Cassie and Angela arrived, whispering quietly between themselves. Then came Father, his presence commanding and composed, followed closely by Mother, Draven, and Kaelis—now fully armored.