The week after the battle became a time of quiet rebuilding.
Elena’s wounds continued to heal rapidly thanks to her awakened wolf and the strength of the mate bond. By the fifth day, she was able to walk short distances without pain, though Luke still insisted on carrying her whenever she pushed too hard.
The pack responded to her sacrifice with a slow but genuine shift in attitude. More wolves sought her out for training or advice. Young mothers brought their pups to meet the Luna. Even the most stubborn traditionalists began addressing her with quiet respect.
One afternoon, while Elena rested on the porch with a cup of herbal tea, a small group of older females approached.
The eldest among them, a silver-haired wolf named Elara, spoke first.
“We lost daughters and sons to past wars.
