They left within the hour—packs secured on their backs, the Silver Fang wrapped carefully in soft leather and tucked into Alex's travel pouch alongside the Black stone and Golden stone . The three divine artifacts hummed together, their combined resonance a steady pulse against Alex's hip.
Moss met them at the territory's edge—alone, deliberate, her ancient eyes knowing.
"You're doing the right thing," she said without preamble. "Leaving now, before roots grow too deep."
"Lucas—" Alex started.
"Will survive," Moss interrupted gently. "He's survived worse than a broken heart. The Essence is already working—I felt three females come into season this morning. The pack will heal. He will heal." She pressed a small bundle into Alex's hands.
"Traveling herbs. For nausea, swelling, energy. You'll need them before you reach bear territory."
"Bear territory?" Naga's hood flared slightly. "That's where we're headed?"
