Chapter 84

84
Ulrik’s POV
Ellen handed out compressed biscuits to my team.
Exhausted, they collapsed and began devouring them hungrily.
I, however, had no appetite and just held mine, watching the sun slowly rise over the horizon.
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The golden rays bathed the sandy desert, creating a beautiful scene that did little to warm my heavy heart.
After hours of fruitless searching in the desert, I returned empty–handed, knowing further pursuit would be futile.
I sat down, mechanically holding the biscuit, and glanced at Adelaide.
She lay with her head on Paisley’s shoulder, appearing unusually listless.
I’d heard she’d been injured and treated, but I had no idea how severe her injuries truly were.
After much hesitation, I stood up and approached her, softly asking, “Are you alright?”
Adelaide didn’t move, as if fast asleep, offering no response.
Paisley, however, scowled and mouthed, “None of your business. Fuck off.”
My wolf growled in fury, desperate to take control.
Yet, worn out from the desert search, it reluctantly retreated.
My elongated nails shortened back to normal.
I turned and walked back to my seat.
Time crept by until dusk fell.
As the sky darkened, I could contain myself no longer.
Seeing Adelaide rise, I hurried over and said, “I plan to head to the grasslands before nightfall.”
Adelaide glanced at the setting sun, her expression unreadable.
Coldly, she said, “You don’t need to inform me. I command the Ironthorn Army; you’re not part of it.” She nodded toward my team.
I stood there stunned, my words cut short.
She was the Ironthorn Army’s commander now, and every word carried weight.
Clenching my teeth, I said in a low voice, “I want to take the Ironthorn Army with me. Consider it a plea/3
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Adelaide, I’ve wronged you before, and I’ll accept any punishment you demand. But we’ve waited nearly two days. Velda can’t hold on much longer. I know you despise her, but once we find her, I’ll make amends to you.”
“This isn’t about personal grudges. The Ironthorn Army won’t go any further,” Adelaide replied, her face an emotionless mask.
I couldn’t help but clench my fists. “Adelaide, I’m begging you here. What more do you want?”
Paisley sneered, “Oh, how humble of you! Your pleading act is so convincing–it’s making us want to beat you up. Taking the Ironthorn Army with you–if the Western Tribes attack, will you fight or make them?”
“Shut your mouth!” I snapped at Paisley, my anger flaring. “Who do you think you are, talking to me like that?”
“Please, like I need any reason to speak to you? Do you have the nerve to act like this?”
I was pushed over the edge and turned to Adelaide. “Adelaide, control your people! Stop them from growling at me like mad dogs.”
No sooner had the words left my mouth than Halbert leaped up like a lit match, swinging his massive fist
at me.
Avery joined in the fray.
d with punches and kicks, unable to defend myself.
up, shielding my head with my hands.
wanting to do this since I first laid eyes on you two,” Halbert growled.
A werewolf’s promise is a bond unto death–you’re a disgrace.”
“You say Adelaide can punish you? Fine, let the punishment begin.”
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The surrounding wolves‘ gazes honed in on us.
My team stirred, hesitant to intervene. Faced with Halbert and Avery’s menacing advances, they froze.
Beaten and bloodied, I lay sprawled on the ground.
Finally, Adelaide spoke, “Halbert, Avery, enough.”
The two stopped mid–strike and swaggered away.
I spat out a mouthful of blood, shook off their grip, and staggered toward Adelaide. “Can we go to the grasslands now?” I asked weakly.
Adelaide’s icy stare pierced me. “Wait,” she said flatly. “The Western Tribes‘ wolves are in the mountains now. They’re seeking justice. We wait.”
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My heart dropped. “How do you know they’re in the mountains? What justice are they after?” She walked on without a word, forcing me to follow lamely behind.
When she finally stopped, I stared at her, desperation etched in my eyes.
The wind howled around us. Suddenly, she said, “If you listen closely, you’ll hear sounds beyond the wind.”
I focused, but all I heard was the wind’s roar.
My frustration boiled over. “What kind of justice are they after?” I demanded.
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