•West Thunoa Forest•
[Ace's POV]
The forest air rushed past my face, sharp with the scent of pine resin and wet bark. My paws pounded against the soft earth, each stride sending vibrations up my legs. Philip's weight shifted uneasily on my back as we navigated through the dense undergrowth, his fingers tightening in my fur whenever we took a sharp turn. Ray ran parallel to me, his silver-orange fur glinting whenever moonlight broke through the canopy.
My ears swiveled constantly, filtering through the night sounds—rustling leaves, distant owl calls, the steady rhythm of our breathing. Then it struck me—a realization I should have made hours ago.
"Philip," I growled, the words rumbling up from my chest. My pace didn't falter, but my muscles tensed beneath his grip. "That green-haired woman Khaleed spoke to... it's impossible for her to be a werewolf."
Philip's body stiffened against my back. "What do you mean?" His voice came out higher than usual, laced with confusion.
