Rain lashed against the panoramic window of the secluded chalet, mirroring the storm brewing within me. My name is known only in whispers, a chilling breeze that precedes the inevitable. I am the Shepherd, and the Shadow Wolves are my flock.The news from the mountains was… unsatisfactory. Silas's interference was a regrettable complication, a messy end to what should have been a clean operation. But sentimentality has no place in our world. The old man was a roadblock, and he was removed. Now, Alessandro Rossi remains the target, and loose ends are unacceptable.I steepled my fingers, the firelight glinting off the heavy signet ring on my hand. The Rossi situation was becoming a delicate dance. Salvatore's desperation was palpable, his resources stretched thin as he blindly flailed in search of his errant son. It was almost… pathetic. But a wounded animal is often the most dangerous.My lieutenant, a hulking brute named Gregor, stood silently in the corner, his presence a constant reminder of the Wolves' unwavering loyalty. "Report," I commanded, my voice a low rumble that echoed in the vast room."The perimeter is secure, Shepherd," Gregor replied, his voice devoid of emotion. "Salvatore's men are swarming the area, just as we predicted. We have successfully infiltrated their ranks, feeding them misinformation and sowing discord.""Excellent," I purred, a hint of satisfaction creeping into my voice. "And Rossi?""He and the librarian are still on the run. They are resourceful, but they are also predictable. They will seek shelter, supplies. We have tightened the net, cutting off their escape routes. It is only a matter of time before they are cornered.""Time is a luxury we cannot afford," I countered, my gaze hardening. "Salvatore is becoming increasingly erratic. He is a wild card, and wild cards must be eliminated. I want Rossi found, and I want it done quickly.""Understood, Shepherd," Gregor said, his voice unwavering. "We have deployed our best trackers. They will not escape."I turned back to the window, watching the storm rage outside. "Clara, the librarian," I mused, more to myself than to Gregor. "She is the key. Rossi will do anything to protect her. Use her. Make him come to us.""And Salvatore?" Gregor asked, his brow furrowed."Let him come," I replied, a cruel smile spreading across my face. "Let him witness his son's demise. Let him feel the pain of loss, the agony of failure. It will be a fitting end to the Rossi legacy."I turned away from the window, my eyes gleaming with anticipation. The hunt was on, and the Shadow Wolves were closing in. Alessandro Rossi's time was running out. And I, the Shepherd, would be there to guide him to his final destination.
