The Crown’s Shadow
The fire crown still shimmered above her, faint but undeniable, a halo of prophecy made flesh. Its light pressed against every soul in the arena, scorching pride and faith alike.
Lena’s breath came ragged, her knees weak beneath her. She wasn’t sure if she was standing by will or by force of the mark that now glowed along her collarbone. Every nerve felt branded, every heartbeat a drum of something more than wolf, more than blood.
And everyone was watching.
Dominic, bloodied but unbroken, his gaze fierce and unwavering.
Kael, kneeling not in defeat but reverence, his lips curved in something between worship and triumph.
The Council, frozen, their ancient masks cracking beneath the weight of what they had just witnessed.
Mireya was the only one who looked unsurpris
