The moon hung heavy in the sky, its glow casting a silver sheen over the training grounds. Aria stood in the center, her breath forming clouds in the chilled air. The aftermath of Hollow Ridge still lingered in her bones, but she refused to let the pain weigh her down. Instead, she channeled it into power—into purpose.
Tonight was different. Tonight, she wasn't just training; she was leading. The younger wolves formed a circle around her, eyes wide with awe and anticipation. Word had spread fast how she'd saved a boy from burning wreckage, how she'd spoken with strength, how she had survived Ronan and now stood unbroken.
Kael stepped forward, his expression unreadable. "They're ready. But they need to see what it means to fight with purpose. Show them."
