CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND FORTY NINE - THE FINAL SHOWDOWN IS COMING

With a shared look of determination, they signaled to their pack members hidden in the surrounding forest. It was time. Anna let out a piercing howl, the sound echoing across the grounds. In an instant, chaos erupted. Alaric's sentries raised the alarm, and the night air filled with snarls and growls as werewolves poured out of the cottage. Erik was the first to move, his massive silver form launching from the underbrush. He collided with the nearest enemy werewolf, teeth flashing in the moonlight. Anna was right behind him, her smaller but quicker form weaving through the melee. The battle was fierce and primal. Werewolves clashed in a fury of claws and fangs, their heightened strength and speed on full display. Anna ducked under a swipe from a burly black wolf, retaliating with a quick snap to its hind leg. She could hear Erik's thunderous growls nearby, knew he was carving a path towards the cottage where Alaric likely waited. Suddenly, a familiar scent caught Anna's attention.