Duskbreaker’s reaction sent Devika’s hackles bristling. Something was very wrong here, they both felt it. Yet even in that unease, she noticed his protectiveness and allowed herself a fleeting smile at his words.

But what now? Should they press deeper? Turn back? What if something truly evil waited in the shadows?

Her icy gaze narrowed as she peered into the trees. The lifeless flora stirred a creeping chill in her bones. She did not like this place. Still, despite hesitation, and her better judgment, her paws carried her forward, deeper into the woods.

The stench clung not only to the trees but to the very earth itself. Her tail lashed once, a low growl rumbling in her chest as she moved. Her steps were silent, careful, deliberate. She dared not touch what death had claimed.

Ears flicked and swiveled, straining for sound, but there was nothing. No birdsong. No rustle. Just the river’s whisper, growing louder the farther she went.

Yet something about it was wrong. How could the sound of water be wrong?

Dread coiled in her chest as she froze, fear prickling at what she might find when they reached the river. Corpses, perhaps. Animals. Wolves. Was that the source of the stench?

Her gaze slid over her shoulder, seeking out her gentle giant, needing the comfort of his presence before taking another step.