***
In the early hours of the morning, I ventured deeper into the woods as the canopy above grew denser, casting shifting patterns of light and shadow on the forest floor. The air was thick with the scent of pine and earth, and a sense of anticipation coiled in the pit of my stomach. I was about to begin my training as a warrior in the Shadowclaw pack, and I couldn't shake the mix of excitement and nervousness coursing through me.
Finally, I reached a small clearing bathed in dappled sunlight, and there, standing at its center, was my trainer. She was a formidable figure, her stance poised and her gaze sharp as she watched me approach. Her jet-black hair was pulled back into a tight ponytail, and she wore a black tank top, camo sweatpants and combat boots.
"Welcome, Ava," she greeted m
