Chapter 60: The Gathering Storm

The ascent into the mountains was grueling, every step up the rugged terrain a reminder of the stakes. By the time we reached a secluded clearing, the first rays of sunlight were piercing through the dense canopy. We paused to catch our breath, the cool mountain air a stark contrast to the oppressive tension weighing on us.

Nathanial, Marcus, and I huddled together, our minds racing to devise a plan. Detective James Miller, who had insisted on joining us despite his skepticism, stood a few feet away, his gaze scanning the forest edge for any sign of danger. Sarah Thompson, my best friend and fellow botanist with her own surprising connection to the werewolves, knelt beside me, her expression a mix of determination and fear.

"We need to find Elena," I said, breaking the silence. "She's our only hope of stopping Gabriel. Without her, we have no chance."

Nathanial nodded, his eyes hard with resolve. "But we also need to prepare for the worst. If Gabriel gets his hands on the spell, we ne