KELLY THOMPSON'S POV

My heart swelled with a mixture of awe and yearning as the elder's words settled upon me like leaves in an autumnal forest. "I must confess," I began, my voice steady yet imbued with reverence, "your traditions... they are a testament to the strength and unity of your pack. It is something I admire deeply and aspire to for my own."

Markus' gaze met mine, ancient eyes shimmering with an understanding that transcended time. "Your desire to embrace our ways honors us, Luna ...