_Mira’s POV_
The night air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of pine and earth as I stood in the middle of the clearing. The entire Firemoon Pack was gathered around, their murmurs quieting as Killian stepped forward. His presence was commanding as always, but tonight, something was different. His shoulders weren’t squared with pride but weighed down, almost… humble.
“I called you all here tonight,” he began, his deep voice carrying across the clearing, “to honor the memory of someone who was taken from us too soon—Mira’s mother.”
The mention of my mother sent a pang through my chest. I swallowed hard, keeping my face composed even as emotions churned within me.
“She was a healer, a guide, and a light in this pack,” Killian continued, his gaze sweeping the crowd before landing on me.
