Smoke curled above the trees, blackening the sky. Shouts echoed through the clearing as bodies clashed, fur tore, and claws met flesh. The stench of blood filled my lungs. I didn't have time to be afraid.
“Lena!” Elias’s voice cut through the chaos, sharp and urgent.
I spun around just in time to see him slam his shoulder into a wolf barreling toward me. The beast yelped, went flying, and crumpled to the dirt. Elias didn't even break stride as he rushed to my side.
“You’re bleeding,” he said, grabbing my arm.
“I’m fine,” I snapped, though my sleeve was soaked and sticking to my skin. “We don’t have time.”
He cupped my cheek, his eyes burning. “Stay close to me.”
I yanked away. “I can’t. They need leadership, Elias. They’re looking to me.”
“And I’m looking to keep you alive,” he grow
