The Trial of Blood and Bond
The wind howled through the sacred clearing, stirring the ancient trees that formed a jagged circle around the trial grounds. Moonlight pierced the canopy in sharp beams, illuminating the silver-washed stones where countless Alpha disputes, blood oaths, and spiritual tests had been waged across generations.
Tonight, that sacred ground awaited two wolves whose bond had shaken the traditions of their kind.
Rowan stood tall, bare-chested under the pale moon, his eyes stormy and focused. The mark from Caleb’s bite still glowed faintly on his neck—evidence of their renewed connection. But here, in this ancient place, no mark would be enough. The spirits wanted more. The Elders demanded more.
Caleb stood beside him, his breath visible in the cold night air, his he
