#Chapter 143: The Refugees

Aria The footage playing on Darren’s laptop made my stomach churn. Lunar Labs had been reduced to smoldering ruins. The lab equipment was smashed, documents scattered and burned, walls blackened by fire. But worst of all were the messages spray-painted across what remained of the walls: “WOLF KILLERS,” “ANIMALS, NOT PEOPLE,” “DEATH TO MOON FREAKS.” I had to look away just to keep my tears from spilling over. Beside me, Darren’s jaw was clenched as he watched the camera pan across the destruction. “Turn it off,” I whispered. “I can’t watch anymore.” Darren closed the laptop, his knuckles white as he gripped the edge of the table. “This is just the beginning,” he growled. “The riots have spread throughout the city. At least twelve werewolves and seven humans were seriously injured overnight.” “Because of us,” I said, feeling sick. “Because we’re protecting Alfira.” “Because people would rather believe a lie than seek the truth,” Darren corrected