The forest echoed with the aftermath of the battle as Avery and her mates stood amidst the fallen rogues, panting and covered in dirt and sweat. The air was thick with the scent of blood and the acrid tang of adrenaline. Shane, Cruz, and Romeo looked around warily, ensuring that none of the rogues remained alive to threaten them further.
"We did it," Cruz said, his voice a mixture of relief and exhaustion. He wiped the sweat from his brow and looked at Avery. "Are you okay?"
Avery nodded, though her hands were trembling slightly. "I'm fine. Thanks to you guys." She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. "We need to keep moving. We can't afford to stay here any longer."
Shane, ever the protector, moved to Avery's side and gently touched her arm. "You're right. But let's take a mom
