The circle closed around her like a prison of flame. Elaria stood by Draven's side, her hand against his, their bodies burning hot together, her pulse pounding wildly inside her chest like a drum. She sensed the desire for her failure, the whispers, and the weight of the pack's stares.

The council elder Kaelis raised his hand, and the fire hissed higher, the runes beneath their feet flaring in warning.

“The bond shall be tested in blood. Not in words. Not in claim. Blood binds. Blood burns. ...