The Shadow Pack’s old territory—once abandoned and overgrown—began to come alive again. Within days of the curse breaking, members returned in waves. Tents sprang up around the clearing while the main pack house was repaired. Laughter echoed through the trees for the first time in years. Children shifted freely without fear. Elders shared stories of the old days, now with hope instead of sorrow.
Lina watched it all from the porch of the half-rebuilt house. Zane stood behind her, arms wrapped around her waist, chin resting on her shoulder.
“It feels real now,” she said softly. “Like we actually won.”
He kissed the side of her neck. “We did. Because of you.”
She turned in his arms. “Because of us.”
Elara approached, carrying a stack of old scrolls. “The elders want a formal ceremony. To
