Chapter 154
Ayla
Seven nights of hotels and camping later, we have made it to the outskirts of the territory Thane believes holds a compound containing my father. Clarke’s pack has brought our 80 shifters. He in’t trust everyone in his pack either, bit I think the numbers are great. Thane would like them to be better, but I can’t fathom any shifters being able to withstand an attack from this marry trained mercenaries. Thane has been all business since we stepped foot into Clarke’s pack. He and the others seemingly flipped a swtich, the reality of the situation coming up becoming their focus.
I was grateful for my time in the pack. The luna, Elizabeth was very welcoming. She made me feel comfortable and talked with me about her duties and experiences. It was really helpful in terms of what I could expect stepping into my role. Now, we are grouped outside of the border with Thane giving out instructions. The team sprays themselves with scent blockers and go over plans and alternate plans for when the first one goes off the rails. I am like a sponge soaking it all in. My wolf in intently taking it all in, learning as well.
We head on foot through the forest. There is snow up here, and I enjoy it immensely. Reminds me of my perceived happier times with my sister. “Pack Clarke will work the perimeter and lay down cover. Use your weapons and shift when necessary. We will leave the packs here. I want two healers to remain here with guards for incoming, and I want one on standby to shift and be ready to get in if needed Protecting the rescued and taking some of these shitbags alive is our priority. If you see this shifter,” he proceeds to hold up a photo of my father and I wince. “Take him alive at all cost. Only put him down if necessary. This is believed to be the leader of the entire operation. Years of work point to him and I want him alive. Use the mind–links. If I say to retreat, we do. If I say to kill everything, do it. We burn the building to the ground before we leave. Any questions?” He asks and everyone remains silent. We break and head through the forest. I am trying to keep my nerves in check, but while I am feeling nervous, Aramana seems to be
Ot used to feeling and it makes me a little on edge. rageful, and hungry for vengeance. Feelings I am
We cross the service road, and the team engages in a few shifters they easily put down by snapping their necks. Cyrus says keeping the blood out of the air when you are trying to stay hidden is a priority and I make a mental note. Thane keeps me close to his side. We spent last night him and I with Cyrus practicing my shielding and using it away from pack Clarke. He wants me to not use it outside of our own pack if necessary and since only our pack is going within the compound, I should be fine. He also stated that anyone seeing my wield my shield that isn’t our pack will die by his hands, and I believe him.
The pack stealthy as the compound comes into view. That make no sounds and are like wraiths through the woods. Silent, deadly and the leader is all mine. I smile at the thought before trying to get myself in check. Ready. I trust my wolf to work together with me but also to follow her instincts which will help our team survive.
