The energy in the tournament grounds was electric as Zoe’s friends gathered around her, congratulating her on her victory. The sparring match had been intense, and her hard-won win against Ewan felt like a statement of strength for the Blue Mountain pack. But as she soaked in their cheers, Zoe felt a strange, creeping chill settle deep under her skin.
Dominic was the first to notice the stiffness in her posture. “Zoe, you okay?” he asked, his expression softening with concern as he stepped closer. “You look… off.”
Zoe forced a smile, waving him off. “I’m fine, really. Just.. guess I put a little too much energy into the fight.” She laughed, trying to shake off the odd sensation, but a shiver ran through her, betraying her unease.
Sara nudged her shoulder playfully. “Come on, Zoe, that w
