The return to the mill was slow and somber.
Wounded wolves limped or were carried on makeshift stretchers.
The air was thick with the metallic scent of blood and the heavy weight of loss.
One young male — barely twenty — had given his life defending the ridge. His body was wrapped carefully and placed with honor near the central fire in the main hall.
Elena walked beside Luke, her side still throbbing from the deep gash Selene had inflicted.
The claiming bond helped her heal faster than before, but the pain remained a sharp reminder of how close the battle had been.
Luke kept one arm around her waist, supporting her without making it obvious. Through the mate link, he sent steady waves of love and strength, anchoring her when exhaustion threatened to pull her under.
Inside the ha
