CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND SIXTEEN – STRANGE POWER

As they made their way out of the cave system, Anna couldn't help but feel that something had changed within her. She felt stronger, more confident in herself and her ability to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Their final ingredient led them deep into the heart of the Amazon, to a part of the forest so dense and wild that it seemed untouched by time. Here, Arryk told them, grew the Tree of Life, whose fruit was said to possess incredible healing properties. As they pushed through the thick undergrowth, Anna began to notice signs of habitation. Crude markers carved into trees, the remnants of campfires long extinguished. "We're not alone out here," she murmured to Erik. He nodded, his posture tense and alert. "I smell others. Werewolves, but... different somehow." Arryk held up a hand, signaling them to stop. "We've reached the territory of the Forest Clan," he said in a low voice. "They are the guardians of the Tree of Life. We must approach with caution and respect." No soon