Kael's POV
The Valley opened before us like a whisper of stone and wind. This wasn’t an ordinary place. The way the rocks rose at impossible angles, the way the mist slithered as if obeying silent commands—this spoke of something older than any of us. Older than the history of the packs.
The captain walked a single step ahead. Her silhouette was a sharp shadow against the fog. She guided us with the certainty of someone who knew every breath of this land. And that… that forced me to stay quiet. For now.
Because I could feel Selene.
Faint, yes.
Distant, yes.
But present.
Each pulse of the bond was a stab. A silver thread tangled in my ribs, pulling me towards her. I knew she was close. I knew she was alive.
What I didn’t know was in what state.
At my side, Lean kept his jaw clenche
