The dawn was breaking in soft, muted colors, painting the sky with hues of pink and gold as we tended to the aftermath of the battle. Around me, the pack moved with a quiet efficiency, cleaning up the remnants of the skirmish and tending to the wounded. Despite the exhaustion and the toll the night had taken, there was a feeling of resilience in the air. We had faced the enemy and emerged victorious, our bond stronger than ever.
Carter was beside me, helping a younger wolf back to her feet, his hands steady and his gaze soft with understanding. Even in the chaos, he remained a calming presence, a steady anchor that helped ground me amid the weight of leadership. I caught his eye, and he offered me a tired but warm smile, the silent exchange enough to bolster my resolve.
Beside me, Ethan
