The next morning dawned crisp and clear, the kind of day that made the forest feel alive and watchful.
The entire Silverpine Pack gathered at the edge of the sacred grove for the full pack run. It was the first time since the claiming that every able-bodied wolf would run together under the Alpha and Luna.
The air hummed with nervous energy — some wolves excited, others still carrying the weight of doubt.
Elena stood beside Luke at the front of the assembly, dressed in simple dark clothes meant for easy shifting.
Her claiming mark stood out proudly on her neck, silver against her warm brown skin. Through the mate bond she felt Luke’s steady confidence flowing into her, calming the flutter of nerves in her chest.
Luke raised his voice so it carried across the clearing.
“Today we run
