The forest had never felt so quiet. Even the wind seemed to hold its breath. Elara and Kael had been training together for weeks now, their bond growing stronger with each synchronized movement, each shared surge of energy. It was a rhythm that neither of them could deny—two halves of a whole, their power flowing in tandem. And yet… something was stirring beyond the safety of their clearing. Something ancient. The Alpha. Far across the territory, where the forest thickened into shadows, the Alpha’s senses tingled. He had felt the bond before, faint and tenuous, stretching between the Moon’s chosen and her anchor. But now… Now it was solid. Strong. Unmistakable. A low, predatory growl rumbled in his chest as he moved, limbs coiling like a spring ready to strike. His keen eyes scan

