POV: Riley The battlefield seemed to grow silent as Riley and Alex charged toward the dark wolf, the towering creature that led their enemies. Time slowed, and Riley felt every heartbeat, every breath, every footfall as they closed the distance. Riley's heart pounded with a mix of fear and determination. This creature was unlike any they had faced before—larger, more powerful, and emanating an aura of pure malevolence. She glanced at Alex, who was equally focused, their shared resolve strengthening her. Mason, in his wolf form, led the pack, his growls a constant encouragement. "Stay sharp, Riley. We've got this," he said through their telepathic link. The dark wolf met their charge head-on. It moved with terrifying speed, lunging at Mason first. Riley and Alex split to flank the creat