CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND SIXTY TWO - Whispers in the Shadows

As she entered, the stranger's head snapped up, and Anna caught a glimpse of piercing green eyes before the figure pulled the hood lower. Erik straightened, his face a mask of concern. "Anna, good morning. We need to talk." The hooded figure slipped out a side door as Anna approached. "Erik, who was that?" He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "An... informant. Someone who's been keeping tabs on some troubling movements in the werewolf world." Anna's heart raced. "And? What did they say?" Erik's voice dropped low. "They think Rowan might be bait. Part of a larger plan to infiltrate powerful packs." Anna gasped. "But he seemed so genuine. So afraid." "Fear can be faked," Erik said grimly. "Or he might genuinely be running, but unknowingly leading danger straight to us." Just then, Marcus entered, his face hard. "The pack's restless, Erik. They want answers." Erik nodded. "Call a meeting. We need to address this head-on." An hour later, the pack gathered in the great hall