Echoes of the Broken Bond

Echoes Within

The travel started at dawn. Kira and Grim left the cabin. They walked through thick forests. Paths wound up toward West Mountain. Snow dusted the ground. Wind bit cold. They carried packs with food and water. No words at first. Just steps.

Grim broke the silence by the river. They stopped to drink. "Kira, let me tell you how Drake really was."

Kira sat on a rock. She looked at him. "Tell me."

"Drake was kind before all this. He led Red Moon fair. Protected pups. Shared hunts with elders. When he met you at the pack meeting, his eyes lit up. He said to me, 'Grim, she is my mate. The bond is strong. Silvermoon past does not matter.' He planned the visit happy. Wanted to claim you right. Unite packs."

Kira frowned. "He was mean. Beat me. Called me traitor."

Grim nodded sad. "Sage's lie broke him. He believed you shot him. Bond twisted hate. But deep down, he fought it. Nights he came to you? Bond pulled, but care stayed. He healed you always. Saved you at end."

Kira touched her chest. Strange feeling grew. Warmth spread. Like another heart beat inside. "Grim... I feel odd. Two souls in me. Drake's soul. I feel him."

Grim eyes wide. "The ritual. He gave soul to bring you back. It lives in you now."

Kira closed eyes. Flashes came. Drake's joy at first sight. His pain from lie. Love hidden under rage. "He happy with me. Wanted family. Sage stole it." Tears fell. "Drake... here."

Grim put hand on shoulder. "Use it. We find time pack. Fix all."

They walked on. Mountain loomed. Kira felt stronger. Two souls pushed forward...