The next morning dawned with an uneasy stillness. The kind of silence that clung to the skin like mist before a storm.
Elara moved through the clearing of Shadow Ridge's central grounds, where warriors and scouts had already begun preparing for the coming days. Tents were being reinforced. Armor was being repaired. The distant clang of steel echoed in rhythm with the tension in her chest.
"Scouts report that Vael's forces are less than two days away," said Ravynn, falling into step beside her. The Beta's eyes were dark with worry, though she kept her voice steady. "He's gathered rogues from the eastern bloodlines. Old enemies. Powerful ones."
Elara's fingers curled into fists at her sides. "We can't run from this."
"We won't," Ravynn said simply. "But we need more than strength. We need unity."
As if summoned by fate, Kael emerged from the other side of the clearing, already armored, his presence commanding without a word. His eyes sought Elara's instantly, locking onto her like she was his compass.
"We have three packs who haven't committed yet," he said as he approached. "They're watching, waiting to see who will rise."
Elara nodded. "Then let's show them."
Later that evening, standing atop the ceremonial stone platform, Elara addressed the growing crowd. Not just warriors and leaders—but families, elders, and young wolves who had only just learned to shift.
"We were once divided by fear," she said, her voice carrying clear into the cold air. "But fear is not strength. Fear is what Vael uses to break us. We will not give him that power."
The fire behind her roared to life as Kael stepped beside her, saying nothing, simply placing a hand on her shoulder. It was enough. His support, his trust—it gave her wings.
"I am Elara Moonborn," she continued, her voice fierce. "Bloodborn not by curse, but by calling. And I will not bow. I will fight for all of us. For the children who dream of freedom. For the mates who haven't found each other yet. For a world where wolves don't have to hide."
A ripple passed through the crowd. Then, a howl.
One voice. Then another. And another.
Until the entire camp echoed with the sound of wolves howling under a rising moon.
The war was coming. But they would not face it broken
.
They would face it together.