"Remember," Alpha Maxwell said as we approached the edge of the clearing, "you must walk alone for the first part of the ceremony. The five of us will be watching, ready to intervene at the first sign of trouble."
I nodded, squaring my shoulders. "I understand."
Kane's hand found mine, squeezing gently. "You can do this."
"We believe in you," Liam added.
"Show them who you really are," Fin urged.
Brent's amber eyes were fierce with pride. "Make them remember why they feared the Blackthornes."
Their confidence flowed through our bond, strengthening my resolve. I took a deep breath, letting Diamond's presence rise within me until I could feel her just beneath my skin, ready to emerge.
"I'm ready," I said, and meant it.
The sound of drums began, a slow, rhythmic beat that matched the
