Chapter 68

Aisha's POV I woke to a hush far too loud. The kind of silence that made the air heavy, thick with the weight of impending chaos. The sheets tangled around my legs were cold, and the space beside me in bed was empty. Simon was already gone. I sat up, rubbing the sleep from my eyes, the dull ache in my muscles reminding me of yesterday's work—lessons, treatments, healing… and Simon's lips pressed against mine like a vow. A sharp knock at the door pulled me from my thoughts. "Aisha?" It was Max's voice. Firm, but urgent. "Come in," I called, already swinging my legs over the side of the bed. He entered without hesitation, dressed in full gear—combat-ready, the air around him tense. "Brayden and Jack's forces have arrived at the border. The scouts say they've mobilized together—likely preparing for a joint assault." I froze, the chill slithering down my spine sharper than any blade. "A joint assault? Now?" Max nodded grimly. "Simon and future Alpha Kai have already started organizing the