Page 88 of The Lycan King's Secret Child

Xander nodded and drove off into the night.

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The road to Crestwood was long and winding, the scenery shifting from urban landscapes to rolling hills and dense forests. As dawn broke, Xander pulled into a secluded rest stop, the morning mist hovering over the ground.

He stepped out of the car, stretching his legs, when a familiar scent caught his attention—a blend of pine and sea salt, tinged with something else. Another lycan had been here recently.

His senses heightened, Xander scanned the area. Footprints led into the woods. He followed them cautiously, ears attuned to any sound.

Deep within the forest, he came upon a small campsite. The remnants of a fire smoldered, and a torn piece of fabric clung to a nearby branch. Picking it up, he recognized the pattern—it was from a cloak worn by Council scouts.

Xander: Muttering to himself "They're closer than I thought."

He hurried back to his car, urgency propelling him forward.

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At Havenwood, Liam sat by the pond where he first discovered his unique connection to nature. He closed his eyes, listening to the whispers of the trees.

Liam: Softly "Something's wrong."

Elias approached quietly.

Elias: "What do you sense, Liam?"

Liam opened his eyes, worry etched on his young face.

Liam: "A storm is coming. Not like before. This one feels... different."

Elias regarded him thoughtfully.

Elias: "Your intuition is strong. We must prepare."

He placed a hand on Liam's shoulder.

Elias: "Come, let's inform the others."

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Amelia was in the village square when she heard the warning bells toll. Villagers emerged from their homes, concern evident.

Seraphine addressed the gathering crowd.

Seraphine: "Everyone, please remain calm. We've received word that the Council may have discovered our location."

A murmur spread through the crowd.

Villager: "What will we do?"

Elias: Stepping forward "We will enact the protective barriers. But we must all work together."

Amelia pushed through the crowd to reach Elias.

Amelia: "Elias, what's happening?"

Elias: "We have reason to believe the Council is near. We need to secure the village."

Her heart raced.

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