THE BATTLE BEGINS

POV: Hardin

I watched the shadows draw in closer as I stood at the boundary of our domain. We had to prepare for Callum's forces, which were on their way. "Hardin," there was a call. I turned to see Kira sprinting in my direction.

"What's wrong?" Seeing the concern on her face, I inquired. "It's Darrel," she exhaled sharply and said. "He's awake, but... he's not the same." I scowled. We thought that after Jenna's sacrifice, Darrel would return to normal. However, nothing was ever that easy.

I questioned, "What do you mean?"

Kira gave a headshake. "He is feeble. Bewildered. He inquires about the shadows often." I turned to face the encroaching night. We looked to be doing this without our Alpha, which was something we needed. "Okay," I murmured, concluding. "Assemble your group. I'll spearhead the assault.

Kira's gaze grew wide. "You? However..." "There's nothing we can do," I interrupted her. "Someone has to do it." She gave a sympathetic nod. "I'll gather the pack." I attempted to re