Chapter 53: A Desperate Plan

“No, no, no…” I muttered, scrambling to my feet, my hands trembling as I wiped the tears from my eyes. I couldn’t let grief consume me, not now.

Not with Gideon lying there, bleeding out, and Silverwood crumbling around us. I had to think, to come up with a plan—something, anything to stop this disaster from claiming more lives.

But what? What could possibly counteract the catastrophe Morrigan had unleashed? My mind raced, desperation clawing at my thoughts. I was the Alpha now. I had to lead. I had to save them.

With a deep breath, I forced myself to focus, scanning the devastation around me. The fissure was still widening, the heart of Silverwood continuing to collapse under the shadow creature’s relentless assault.

The ancient roots were dying, and with them, the land’s protective power was fading fast.

“Rowan!” I called out, my voice hoarse. I had to find him. He was our best strategist, the one who always had a plan.

But there was no response, only the crackling of f