chapter fourty four

*Third person POV

The darkness of the forest enveloped two figures, their faces obscured by the shadows. The only sound was the distant hooting of owls and the rustling of leaves.

One figure, tall and imposing, stepped forward, his voice low and urgent. "What's taking you so long to initiate Phase Two? We can't afford delays."

The second figure, slightly smaller, emerged from the darkness, his features still indistinct. "I was waiting for the right moment. Most of the packs are still reeling from the attack."

The first figure's tone turned menacing. "The packs’ vulnerability is exactly why we must act now. We can't give them time to regroup."

The second figure nodded, his voice laced with caution. "Understood. But we risk exposure if we rush."

The first figure's voice dropped to a growl. "I didn't hire you for your caution. I hired you for results. Initiate Phase Two immediately."

The second figure's gaze flickered, a hint of unease visible in the darkness. "As you wish."

A pause hung