Athena.

The morning air was thick with mist as Beauty and I rode toward the Dark Moon Pack territory. Every tree, every rustle of leaves seemed sharper, more alert, as though the forest itself was watching us, sensing the tension radiating from our purpose. I held the reins tightly, trying to steady my heartbeat, reminding myself that this mission was crucial—not just for our survival, but for the safety of my children and the future I was determined to carve.

Beauty glanced at me, her ...