Dante had merely been patrolling the borders when Apple’s desperate cry shattered the air.

The sheer panic woven into her voice sent him instantly on edge. Fur bristled violently along his spine, emerald eyes widening as adrenaline surged through him. Without a second thought, he launched himself toward the sound, every instinct roaring to life.

Protect the Oasis.

Protect his family.

The second cry only drove him faster, the ground blurring beneath pounding paws as he tore through the territory without hesitation.

When he finally burst through the trees, his gaze landed immediately upon a sobbing Apple and a visibly distressed Pomegranate. It took every ounce of restraint he possessed not to barrel straight past them in search of blood.

Instead, he skidded to a harsh halt beside Pom, positioning himself protectively over the young wolf as his chest heaved for breath. Emerald eyes snapped wildly across the surroundings, searching frantically for whatever threat had reduced his mate to such obvious panic.

Teeth remained bared, every muscle taut and ready for violence.

Yet nothing revealed itself.

No attacker lunged from the shadows. No scent of immediate danger struck him.

Only then did he become dimly aware of Apple climbing down into the hole nearby while his damaged ears flicked toward her voice.

Apple? he called sharply, still scanning the treeline for danger. What is going on? Concern and tension bled heavily through his tone now. Did something happen?