It had been a week since the battle that shook the grounds of both Northridge and its allies — a week since the dark veil that hung over their lands was torn away by the strength of their unity. The wounds of the fallen still echoed in their hearts, but the living had gathered their courage again.

Alpha Logan stood tall before Alpha Caelen, his expression calm yet heavy with the kind of gratitude that went beyond words. The air was clear and brisk, the faint scent of pine carried on the wind ...