The bond hummed.

The forest watched.

And Lyla stepped forward to face the trial.

Kieran stood across from her, his expression unreadable.

His wolves had formed a circle, closing them in.

This wasn’t just a fight.

It was a test of power.

A test of control.

And Lyla knew

If she failed here, she wouldn’t just lose their respect.

She would lose everything.

Kieran lifted his chin.

"The Guardian must be tested," he said. "It has always been this way."

Mason ...