Chapter 56: A New Dawn.

The first light of dawn filtered through the canopy; all the light was warm, golden, and rich. Chloe stretched and, finally, fully emerged from the den, taking in the richness of all the earthy scents that surrounded and welcomed her like old friends. She just smiled contentedly, looking at the sylvan paradise that had become home. "What a glorious morning!" she murmured, and she felt the rush of exhilaration that came with the embrace of each new day, familiar in its arms of green splendor. A soft whine from behind drew her focus, and she turned to find Nyla looking at her with those piercing amber eyes. The alpha was well-rested and relaxed, but to Chloe, there seemed to be some smoldering energy just below the surface of her lupine companion's otherwise stoic exterior. "You're looking forward to this hunt, aren't you?" Chloe laughed, the gleam in Nyla's gaze all the confirmation she needed. Without any more preambles, they both started to lope easily, picking their way through t