Shadows of the heart

Untitl

Chapter 76: Legacy of Fire

Years passed, but some things never changed. The pack grew stronger, their family larger, and their love deeper. Lira and Kael were no longer toddlers but fierce young shifters with wild hearts and endless curiosity.

“Mom, watch this!” Kael shouted, his eyes gleaming gold like his father’s as he shifted mid-leap, landing on four paws. His sleek black wolf darted around the clearing, fast and untouchable.

“Show-off,” Lira muttered, her silver eyes flashing as she waved a hand. Wind spiraled around her, and in the blink of an eye, she vanished, reappearing at the top of a tree.

“Don’t make me ground you both,” Aria called, hands on her hips but a smile tugging at her lips.

“Can you catch us, Mama?” Lira teased, her hybrid form shimmering with silver sparks.

Elias appeared beside Aria, arms crossed, his grin sharp as ever. “They get it from you.”

“Don’t pretend you’re innocent,” she shot back, nudging him with her elbow.

“They’re just like us,” he said, his eyes softening as he watched his children run free. “Unstoppable.”

Aria leaned into him, heart full. “Just like us,” she agreed, her gaze on their future.

Chapter 77: A New Dawn

The pack gathered beneath the glow of the Hunter’s Moon. Its silver light bathed the clearing in a soft, ethereal glow. The air buzzed with magic, the forest alive with energy.

Lira stood at the center, her hands raised as silver sparks danced along her fingertips. Her face was a mask of determination. Her first solo casting — a rite of passage for hybrids like her.

“Breathe, Lira,” Aria’s voice echoed in her mind. “Don’t force it. Let it flow.”

Lira exhaled slowly, eyes shut. Her fingers twitched, and the energy surged like a heartbeat. The wind shifted, swirling leaves in a spiral of glowing light. The pack watched in awe as the whirlwind rose higher, a perfect storm of control and power.

Kael, leaning on Elias, grinned. “She’s showing off again.”

“Like her mother,” Elias replied, pride in his voice.

When Lira lowered her hands, the magic dissipated in a soft shimmer of light. The pack erupted into cheers.

“Look at you,” Aria said, wrapping Lira in a hug. “My unstoppable little fox.”

Lira grinned, eyes shining with triumph. “I learned from the best.”

Elias pulled them both into his arms, his family — his world — finally complete.

Chapter 78: Trials of the Heart

Years of peace had brought new challenges. As Alpha, Elias bore the weight of leadership, while Aria guided their children through the delicate dance of magic and instinct. But tonight, something was different.

“Mom, Dad, they’re here,” Kael announced, his eyes darting to the edge of the forest where shadows shifted unnaturally. His senses were sharp, his wolf on edge.

Aria’s gaze followed his, her eyes narrowing to silver slits. She stepped forward, her power radiating like a storm ready to break. “Stay with your sister, Kael.”

“Mom, I can fight,” he argued, his voice firm.

“I know,” she said, glancing back at him with a soft smile. “But you protect her first. Always.”

Elias stepped up beside her, his eyes locked on the treeline. His voice was a low growl. “They think they can challenge us?”

“Fools,” Aria muttered, rolling her shoulders. Her claws elongated, her magic pulsing just beneath her skin. “They forgot who they’re dealing with.”

The first rogue stepped into view, his sneer fading as he met Aria’s silver gaze.

“Last chance to run,” Elias warned, his eyes glowing gold.

They didn’t run.

“Your mistake,” Aria whispered, unleashing the storm within.

Chapter 79: Bonds Forged in Battle

The night erupted in chaos. Rogues poured from the shadows, their snarls blending with the roar of the storm Aria summoned. Wind howled, carrying leaves and debris through the air like blades.

Kael stood in front of Lira, his wolf form bristling with fury. Lira’s silver sparks hovered around her hands as she prepared to strike if anyone got too close.

“Stay sharp, Kael!” Aria called as she ducked a swipe from a rogue’s claws. Her counter was swift, her claws cutting deep. The rogue yelped, retreating into the shadows.

Elias was a whirlwind of precision and power. Each movement was calculated, each strike devastating. His golden eyes flashed with raw dominance as he fought, his wolf barely beneath the surface.

“Elias, three more on your left!” Aria’s warning came just in time. He spun, his claws meeting fur and flesh in a single, fluid motion.

“You keep count?” he asked, grinning as he wiped blood from his jaw.

“Someone has to,” she replied, slamming a rogue into a tree with a gust of wind.

The rogues realized too late that they were no match. Those who could still run fled.

“Cowards,” Kael muttered.

“Smart cowards,” Lira added, eyes still glowing.

Chapter 80: After the Storm

The forest was eerily quiet, save for the soft patter of rain dripping from the leaves. The battle was over. The scent of blood lingered, but none of it belonged to them.

Kael shifted back to his human form, wiping dirt from his face. “They’ll think twice before coming back.”

Lira stepped forward, her silver eyes still glowing faintly. “They were sloppy. Desperate.” Her voice was wise beyond her years, and it tugged at Aria’s heart. Her little girl was growing up too fast.

“Desperate wolves make reckless decisions,” Elias muttered, scanning the treeline with narrowed eyes. “We’ll double patrols for the next week.”

Aria stepped beside him, her fingers brushing his. “We sent a message tonight. They won’t forget it.”

He glanced at her, his eyes softening. “You were brilliant out there.”

“I know,” she teased, leaning into him. Her heart slowed to a steady rhythm, matching the quiet hum of nature around them.

Kael’s eyes darted to his sister. “Race you home?”

“You’ll lose,” Lira replied, already taking off.

Kael grinned and bolted after her.

Aria watched them go, leaning into Elias's warmth. “They’ll be unstoppable.”

“Just like their parents,” he said, pressing a kiss to her temple.

---

Chapter 81: Nightfall Promises

The fire crackled softly in the hearth, its golden glow dancing across the walls of the pack house. Aria sat on the couch, her legs tucked beneath her, watching Kael and Lira argue over a card game.

“Uno is about strategy,” Kael huffed, tossing a card down with exaggerated flair. “Not luck, Lira.”

“You just say that because you’re losing,” Lira retorted, flicking a card at him.

Aria stifled a laugh, leaning her head against Elias's shoulder. His arm draped around her, pulling her close. Moments like these were rare but precious.

“Peace feels strange, doesn’t it?” she murmured.

“Strange, but welcome,” Elias replied, his eyes half-closed. His fingers traced lazy circles on her arm. “No rogues. No war. Just family.”

“Don’t jinx it,” she warned, tilting her head up to look at him.

His lips curved into a smile, and he leaned down to kiss her, slow and steady. It wasn’t driven by urgency, but by something deeper — love, trust, and the quiet knowing that they’d weathered every storm together.

When they parted, he pressed his forehead to hers. “No one’s taking this from us.”

“Not now. Not ever,” she agreed, letting herself fall into the peace they’d fought so hard to claim.

Chapter 82: Midnight Whispers

The moon hung high in the sky, its silver glow spilling through the large windows of their bedroom. Aria lay on the bed, her head resting on Elias's bare chest, listening to the steady thump of his heartbeat. It was a sound she could lose herself in — strong, constant, unyielding.

His fingers lazily traced circles on her back, his other hand tangled in her hair. The world outside was quiet, but inside, warmth and contentment hummed in every corner of the room.

"You're quiet tonight," he murmured, his deep voice a soothing rumble beneath her ear.

"Just thinking," she replied, tilting her head to meet his gaze. His golden eyes gleamed like molten amber in the moonlight. "About everything we’ve been through."

He raised an eyebrow. "Regrets?"

"None," she said firmly, pressing a soft kiss on his chest. "Only gratitude."

His eyes softened, a rare tenderness reserved only for her. "Gratitude, huh? I must be doing something right."

"You are," she admitted, her fingers drawing slow patterns on his skin. "You always have."

They lay there in silence, breaths and heartbeats in sync, letting the world fade beyond their little haven. No battles. No enemies. Just them.

"Sleep, little fox," he whispered. "I've got you."

---

Chapter 83: Ties That Bind

Morning came with the sweet scent of wildflowers and freshly baked bread. Aria sat at the dining table, sipping her tea as the sunlight spilled through the window. Lira and Kael sat across from her, their giggles filling the air.

"Mom, guess what?" Lira said, her eyes wide with excitement. "Kael thinks he can beat me in a sparring match."

Kael rolled his eyes, his grin mischievous. "I can beat you, Lira. I'm faster."

"You're reckless," Lira shot back, tossing a piece of fruit at him. He caught it with ease, flashing a smug grin.

Aria watched them with quiet pride. Her children were everything she had dreamed of — fierce, free, and full of life.

Elias walked in, his presence commanding the room like a shift in the wind. He leaned down to kiss Aria's cheek, his lips warm against her skin. “What’s all this noise?”

“Kael’s about to get humbled,” Lira declared, smirking.

Elias chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “I’ll referee. Try not to break anything.”

“Can’t make promises,” Kael quipped, already on his feet.

As the two siblings dashed outside, Aria leaned back in her chair, eyes on Elias.

“Think they’ll be okay?” she asked.

“They’re ours,” he replied with pride. "They'll be unstoppable."

Chapter 84: Training Grounds (200 words)

The training ground buzzed with energy. The crisp morning air smelled of fresh earth, and the distant rustle of leaves echoed through the clearing. Lira and Kael stood opposite each other, eyes locked in silent challenge.

"Ready?" Elias called, his voice firm but laced with pride. He stood at the edge of the sparring ring, arms crossed over his broad chest.

"Ready!" Lira declared, her silver eyes blazing with focus.

"Always," Kael replied, flashing his sharp grin.

“Begin!” Elias commanded.

Lira moved first, a blur of silver hair and raw energy. Her magic surged, and a gust of wind swirled around her, propelling her forward with lightning speed. Kael braced himself, his feet digging into the dirt, eyes tracking her every move. At the last second, he spun, narrowly dodging her strike.

“Too slow, little brother,” Lira taunted, tossing her hair back.

Kael growled low, his amber eyes glowing faintly like his father’s. His stance shifted, more calculated this time. He lunged, quick as a wolf in a hunt, forcing Lira to backpedal.

“Nice move,” she admitted, panting slightly.

"Learned from the best," he shot back, eyes flicking toward Elias.

“Don’t flatter me,” Elias called, his grin wide. "Earn it."

---

Chapter 85: Unspoken Lessons (200 words)

The sparring continued for nearly an hour, each sibling refusing to yield. Sweat glistened on their brows, breaths coming fast but steady. Every dodge, every strike, every shift in stance spoke of countless hours of training and unspoken lessons passed down from their parents.

Lira’s magic flared again, wind swirling around her like a tempest. She struck fast, aiming for Kael’s shoulder, but he ducked low, sweeping her legs. She hit the ground with a grunt, eyes wide with surprise.

Kael offered her a hand, grinning like he’d just conquered a kingdom. "Need help, big sister?"

Her eyes narrowed. "Don't get cocky, pup." She grabbed his hand — and yanked him down with her. He yelped, landing beside her with a loud thud.

Lira rolled on top of him, pinning him to the ground, her grin triumphant. "Rule number one: never let your guard down."

Kael groaned, head pressed into the dirt. "Cheap move."

"Effective move," she corrected, patting his cheek.

"That’s enough," Elias called, his voice like thunder. They both looked up to see him smirking. "Victory goes to Lira. But Kael, you showed patience. Keep that up, and you’ll surprise her next time."

Kael grumbled, "Next time, huh? Count on it."

---

Chapter 86: Whispers of Fate (200 words)

Later that night, the pack house was quiet, the soft glow of lanterns casting long shadows on the walls. Aria sat on the porch swing, her legs curled beneath her, eyes gazing at the stars. The air smelled of pine and rain, the world still and peaceful.

The door creaked open behind her, and she didn’t have to look to know it was Elias. His presence was as familiar as her own heartbeat.

"Couldn't sleep?" he asked, sitting beside her.

"Just thinking," she replied, leaning into him as his arm wrapped around her shoulders.

"About the kids?"

"About everything," she admitted, her silver eyes glinting with something unspoken. "They’re growing so fast, Elias. Sometimes, I feel like I blink, and they’ve grown stronger, smarter, bolder.” She shook her head. "They’re going to surpass us one day."

"That’s the point," he murmured, pressing his lips to her temple. "They’ll be better. Stronger. But they’ll always have us."

She sighed, her gaze still on the stars. "I just hope the world doesn’t break them before they’re ready."

Elias’s grip tightened around her. "They’re ours, Aria. They’ll break the world before it breaks them."

Her lips curled into a small smile. "I hope you’re right."

---

Chapter 87: Echoes of the Past (200 words)

Days passed, and with them came whispers of old enemies resurfacing. Tensions rose within the pack as rumors of rogue shifters encroaching on their borders spread like wildfire.

Aria stood in the war room with Elias, a large map of Blackthorn's territory spread across the table. Her fingers traced the red-marked borders, her brows furrowed in thought.

"Rogues rarely move this close to pack land," she muttered. "Unless they’re being led."

"Led by who?" Elias leaned over the table, his golden eyes sharp as ever. "We wiped out most of the threats last year."

"Most," she repeated, her silver eyes meeting his. "Not all."

A knock sounded at the door. Kael entered, his eyes flicking from his father to his mother. "You called for me?"

"You're going on patrol with me tonight," Elias said firmly.

Kael straightened, pride flickering in his eyes. "About time."

"Don’t get ahead of yourself, pup," Elias warned, though there was pride in his tone. "This isn’t training. It's real."

"Understood, Alpha," Kael said, his face a mask of resolve.

Aria watched them both, her heart a mix of pride and worry. Please, let this peace last a little longer, she thought. Just a little longer.

---

Chapter 88: The First Hunt (200 words)

Moonlight poured through the trees, silver beams cutting through the darkness like blades. The forest was alive with the rustle of leaves and the distant cry of an owl. Kael’s heart pounded with anticipation as he followed Elias through the underbrush.

“Stay close,” Elias said, his voice barely above a whisper. “Don’t chase anything unless I say so.”

Kael nodded, his eyes scanning every shadow, every flicker of movement. His senses were sharper than ever, his wolf half fully alert. This wasn’t like sparring with Lira. This was real.

The air shifted. The scent hit him first — sharp, wild, and unfamiliar. Rogues.

Elias caught it too, his golden eyes narrowing. He crouched low, motioning for Kael to do the same. They moved in silence, steps calculated and soundless.

Ahead, movement. Shadows flitting between the trees. Three figures. No… four.

Kael’s breath caught in his throat. His heart hammered with a mix of fear and thrill.

“Stay behind me,” Elias ordered, his voice firm but quiet.

“No,” Kael said, his eyes glowing faintly. “I’m ready.”

Elias glanced at him, a flicker of pride in his gaze. "Then stay sharp, son. We move together."

Father and son moved as one, wolves in the night.

---

Chapter 89: Legacy of Wolves (200 words)

The clash was sudden, brutal, and wild. The first rogue lunged from the shadows, teeth bared, eyes wild with rage. Kael ducked, his instincts sharp as he spun on his heel, claws flashing in the moonlight.

He struck fast, claws raking across the rogue’s side. Blood scented the air. The rogue howled, stumbling back, eyes locked on Kael.

“Not bad,” Elias said, already grappling with another rogue. His movements were smooth, precise, every attack calculated to end the fight quickly. "Keep your head in the fight, Kael."

“I know,” Kael growled, sidestepping another attack. His eyes were blazing amber now, his wolf surging with power. The thrill of battle was electric, his pulse wild with adrenaline.

Two rogues circled him, their eyes watching for weakness. But Kael gave them none. With a roar, he charged, his movements a blur of speed and fury.

He took down the first rogue with a well-placed strike to the neck. The second one hesitated, eyes darting to Elias, then Kael.

“Run,” Kael snarled, his fangs bared.

The rogue did.

Elias watched, pride swelling in his chest. His son wasn’t a pup anymore.

“You did good,” Elias said, his grin sharp.

“Learned from the best,” Kael replied breathlessly.

Chapter 90: Homecoming

The forest grew quieter as dawn approached, the distant howl of retreating rogues fading into the soft rustle of the wind. Kael's chest rose and fell with every deep breath, his muscles aching but his heart thundering with pride.

Elias clapped a hand on his son’s shoulder. “You fought well, Kael.”

Kael wiped the back of his hand across his brow, smearing dirt and blood. "They weren't as tough as I expected."

Elias raised a brow, his golden eyes sharp with warning. “Underestimate an enemy, and you won’t live to regret it.”

Kael nodded, the lesson sinking deep. He’d won tonight, but he knew luck had played a part. Next time, he wouldn’t rely on it.

By the time they reached the edge of the forest, the sun had begun to rise. The pack house stood in the distance, its silhouette bathed in soft orange and pink hues. The sight of home filled Kael with a warmth he couldn’t explain.

On the porch, Lira and Aria waited, their eyes locking onto him. Lira waved, her grin wide with approval. Aria’s gaze lingered on him longer, her eyes filled with pride — and relief.

"Welcome back, warrior," Aria said, her voice soft but full of love.

Kael smiled, his heart full.

---

Chapter 91: Bonds of Blood

That evening, the pack gathered around a large bonfire, flames crackling and dancing against the night sky. The warmth of the fire mixed with the rich scent of roasted meat, laughter, and the hum of quiet conversations. It was a night of celebration — not just for survival, but for growth.

Kael sat beside Lira, their plates full of food. She nudged him with her elbow, grinning like she’d won something.

"Big night for you, warrior boy," she teased, popping a grape into her mouth.

"Jealous, little sister?" he shot back, leaning forward with a grin.

“Jealous of you?” She snorted, flicking a crumb at him. "Please, I’d have taken down all four of them before you blinked.”

"Keep dreaming, Lira," Kael muttered, shaking his head.

Nearby, Elias and Aria sat side by side, watching their children. Aria leaned into Elias, her eyes filled with peace she hadn’t felt in years. She turned her gaze toward him, silver meeting gold.

“They’ll be unstoppable,” she said, echoing words from long ago.

Elias hummed in agreement, his eyes never leaving their children. "They already are.”

The fire burned on, its glow reflecting in their eyes — a family forged in love, battle, and unyielding strength.

---

Chapter 92: The Promise

Later that night, Kael stood at the edge of the forest, the cool breeze brushing through his dark hair. The world beyond the trees felt vast, unknown, and calling to him in ways he didn’t fully understand.

Lira approached quietly, her steps light but certain. She leaned against the tree beside him, her silver eyes gazing out into the endless stretch of shadowy forest.

“Thinking of running off?” she asked casually, hands in her coat pockets.

"Just thinking," Kael muttered. His eyes stayed on the horizon, his thoughts distant. "There's more out there than just this place."

Lira tilted her head, her eyes narrowing with understanding. “You’re not wrong. But there’s nothing out there that you can’t face.” She glanced at him. “We’re stronger than we know, Kael. You proved that tonight.”

He let her words sink in, his heart steadying. “Yeah. We are.”

Silence fell between them, but it was comfortable. The kind of silence only family could share.

“Promise me something, Lira,” Kael said, finally turning to her.

“Depends.”

“If I ever forget how strong I am, remind me.”

Lira’s grin was sharp and sure. “Oh, trust me, big brother. I’ll never let you forget.”

Their laughter echoed through the night.

---

Chapter 93: A New Dawn

Sunlight streamed through the windows of the pack house, bathing the living room in golden light. Aria stood at the kitchen counter, pouring tea into two cups. The soft sound of footsteps made her smile before she even turned.

“You’re up early,” Elias murmured, stepping behind her. His arms wrapped around her waist, his face buried in her neck.

“Couldn’t sleep,” she admitted, tilting her head to give him more space. “The world feels... quiet.”

“Quiet can be good,” he whispered, placing a gentle kiss on her collarbone.

Her smile grew. “Or it’s just the calm before the storm.”

They stayed like that for a while, wrapped in warmth and silence. Outside, Lira and Kael's voices echoed as they trained, laughter mingling with the sound of sparring.

Elias glanced toward the window, his golden eyes softening. “They’ll be ready for whatever comes.”

“I know,” Aria said, turning in his arms. Her silver eyes met his, and for a moment, they stood there, two warriors who had fought for everything they now held. “But just in case, we’ll be ready too.”

Elias leaned down, his lips brushing hers. “Always.”

Their kiss was slow and certain, like a vow made without words.

---

Chapter 94: Seeds of the Future

Months passed, and with them, a quiet shift settled over the pack. Lira and Kael grew stronger, more disciplined, their bond as siblings only deepening. The pack thrived, peace lingering longer than anyone expected.

But one morning, Aria woke with a feeling she hadn’t experienced in years — an overwhelming sense of change.

Her eyes fluttered open, the weight of it pressing on her chest. The sun peeked through the curtains, soft and golden. She sat up slowly, a hand resting on her stomach, her heart thudding with realization.

No… it couldn’t be.

Her fingers pressed gently, her breath catching in her throat. Her magic hummed faintly, a quiet song only she could hear. Tears pricked at the edges of her eyes.

“Aria?” Elias’s voice was groggy as he sat up beside her. His eyes narrowed as he saw her expression. “What’s wrong?”

Her lips trembled, her silver eyes meeting his. “It’s not wrong,” she whispered, her voice barely a breath. “It’s perfect.”

She reached for his hand, guiding it to her stomach. His golden eyes widened, shock flashing across his face before it melted into something softer.

“Another one?” he asked, his voice choked with awe.

“Maybe two,” she teased, grinning through her tears.

---

Chapter 95: Full Circle

Months later, the pack house was filled with the soft cries of newborns. Lira and Kael hovered near the bedroom door, eyes wide with wonder as they peeked inside.

“Are they that small?” Lira whispered, eyes locked on the two tiny bundles nestled in Aria’s arms.

“Yep,” Kael replied, grinning. “We were probably that small once.”

“Speak for yourself,” Lira muttered, arms crossed. “I was born ready.”

Elias sat on the edge of the bed, his eyes fixed on Aria. She looked exhausted but radiant, her silver eyes gazing lovingly at the two sleeping infants in her arms. One had dark hair like Kael, the other had silver strands like Lira.

“They’re perfect,” Elias whispered, leaning in to kiss Aria’s forehead. “Just like their mother.”

Her gaze lifted to him, her love for him so fierce it burned brighter than any flame. “No,” she corrected softly, her eyes drifting to the twins. “They’re better.”

Kael and Lira stepped inside, eyes full of awe as they approached.

“Meet your baby sisters,” Aria said, her smile so soft it could break hearts.

“Two more warriors,” Lira whispered, her grin growing.

“Two more legends,” Kael added, eyes bright with pride.

The End.

Chapter 96: A Growing Legacy

The morning sun filtered through the large windows, casting a warm glow on the living room floor. Laughter echoed throughout the pack house as Kael and Lira chased each other in a playful battle of speed and agility. Their baby sisters, Ayla and Reyna, watched from a cushioned play area, their wide eyes filled with wonder.

Aria leaned against the doorway, a serene smile softening her features. Her heart swelled with pride. This is what I fought for. This is home.

Elias approached quietly, his arms slipping around her waist. His chin rested on her shoulder as he followed her gaze to their children. “They’re wild like you,” he teased, his voice low and warm.

“Wild like us,” she corrected, tilting her head to glance at him. Her silver eyes shimmered with affection.

“Fair point,” he admitted with a grin, placing a kiss on her temple. “But I think Ayla might be the fiercest of them all.”

They watched as Ayla squealed, reaching out to grab Lira’s tail. Lira yelped, twisting away, only for Ayla to burst into a fit of giggles.

“Unstoppable,” Elias said, his eyes shining with pride.

“Just like us,” Aria replied, leaning into him, her heart finally at peace.

---

Chapter 97: Trouble on the Horizon

Nightfall came with an eerie stillness that unsettled the pack. The usual hum of the forest had faded, replaced by a deafening quiet.

Elias stood on the front porch, his eyes sharp as he scanned the treeline. His senses were on high alert. He’d felt this before — the calm before a storm.

“Scouts reported movement near the northern border,” Kael said as he approached, his golden eyes watchful. “Smells like rogues.”

“Rogues don’t get this close without a reason,” Elias muttered, his jaw tightening. “Double the patrols. I want every entrance covered.”

Kael nodded and shifted into his wolf form, disappearing into the woods.

Inside, Aria rocked Ayla to sleep. Her eyes flickered toward the window, catching Elias's silhouette. She knew that stance — protective, on edge, ready for war.

Lira approached, eyes sharp like her mother’s. “What’s happening, Mama?”

“Just a precaution,” Aria said softly, brushing Lira’s hair behind her ear. “But stay close tonight.”

Her gaze lingered on Elias as he stood like a sentinel in the night. She’d fought too hard to build this life, and she’d burn the world down before she let anyone take it from her.

“Let them come,” she whispered, eyes flashing silver. “We’ll be ready.”

---

Chapter 98: Shadows Lurking

The forest was cloaked in darkness, its quiet broken only by the soft crunch of leaves beneath Kael’s paws. Lira followed close behind him, her eyes glowing faintly silver in the night. Their breath formed misty clouds in the crisp air.

“They’re here,” Kael mind-linked his sister, his ears twitching toward a faint rustle ahead.

“I smell them too,” Lira responded, her gaze narrowing. “Three of them.”

They crept forward, muscles coiled, ready to strike. The faint glow of moonlight filtered through the canopy, illuminating three figures just beyond the trees. Their ragged clothes and wild eyes were a dead giveaway — rogues.

“Step lightly, little pups,” one of the rogues sneered, his grin flashing sharp teeth. “Wouldn’t want you to get hurt.”

“Funny,” Lira said, her voice cold. “We were thinking the same for you.”

With a snarl, Kael launched himself at the rogue. Claws clashed with claws,