The ancient chamber of the Grove fell silent after Samantha's declaration. The magical roots that had moments ago woven an intricate tapestry of passion now seemed to pulse with a more measured energy, as if waiting, watching.
Kai was the first to move. His werewolf instincts were on high alert, muscles coiled tight beneath his skin. "We can't stay here," he muttered, running a hand through his hair. "The healing pools were a temporary sanctuary, and the Council will be hunting us down faster than a cat chasing a laser pointer."
Marcus stretched lazily. "Actually," he said with a sardonic grin, "I know a thing or two about obscure tracking methods. The Council's not as smart as they think they are."
Aspen's voice was a melodic whisper, carrying the weight of centuries. "Overconfidence can be a fatal flaw," he warned, his accent a subtle blend that spoke of ancient lineages and forgotten magical realms.