The five who were never meant to love me
The ancient wolf, still standing watch over the chamber, lowered its head toward Aurora, glowing eyes carrying something that felt almost like sympathy despite its ancient, alien presence.
*He is weakened,* the wolf said, the words resonating through the bond. *What he took from you, and what he lost when the vessel shattered, will cost him greatly. But you are correct. He will return. Beings like him do not simply give up after three centuries of patience.*
"Great," Ryder muttered, still gripping Kieran's hand tightly. "So on top of the council, Ironwood, and a traitor somewhere in our own pack, we've also got an ancient immortal who apparently orchestrated my best friend's parents' deaths