AWAKENING OF THE ANCIENT SHADOW
The forest trembled beneath the steps of the creature that emerged from the darkness. Its form was enormous, far larger than any wolf Nara had ever seen, with eyes like molten crimson fire and a shadow that seemed alive, twisting unnaturally around its limbs. Every breath it took sent a ripple of cold through the clearing, and even Kael, formidable Alpha, stiffened beside her.
Nara swallowed hard, her bloodline magic thrumming violently in response. The power inside her pulsed like a living heartbeat, urging her forward, daring her to step closer. Yet fear knotted her stomach. The bond with Kael pulled her toward him, anchoring her even as instinct screamed to run.
“Stay behind me,” Kael commanded, his voice low and commanding, though strained by the ling
