Elena's POV

Energy burst forth from within me.

Not controlled. Not calculated. Just raw, desperate need to protect him.

The sword paused in mid-motion. The woman gripping it halted her crimson eyes growing wide with astonishment. Surrounding us, the wolves sank onto their knees, heads lowered, compelled into obedience by a force they couldn't resist.

"Unbelievable, " the woman whispered. "You lack training. Haven't gained mastery. You shouldn't have the ability to…"

"Step back from him." ...