Dawn broke over the Velkorin mountains, the sky painted in pale pink and gold.
I woke before Talia arrived, my body stiff and My muscles ached but I forced myself to move. Today was the first trial. There was no turning back.
By the time I reached the training grounds, the council wolves and several pack members had already gathered. The air smelled of damp stone, sweat, and pine. My stomach twisted nervously. I had never fought anyone like this before… especially not pack warriors.
Maren was already there, arms crossed, smirking like she owned the world.
I hate her guts.
Kaelen was at the edge of the field, standing tall, golden eyes scanning everyone. His presence pressed down on me, making it hard to breathe, but it also… gave me a strange sense of focus I couldn't let
