The forest woke slowly beneath a pale winter sky. Frost clung stubbornly to the branches, and thin ribbons of mist drifted through the trees like restless spirits. I stood at the edge of the clearing, arms folded across my chest as I watched the rogue camp come alive.
Months ago, this place had been nothing more than scattered wolves trying to survive the cold and the dangers of the forest. Now it moved like a living organism. Every wolf had a purpose. Every movement had intention.
And every decision flowed back to me.
My wolf stirred beneath my skin, restless but controlled. It had been like that lately, alert, aware, constantly listening to the world around us. Strength had grown within me quietly, shaped by training, strategy, and the responsibility of leading wolves who trusted my j
