Selene’s body had grown stronger over the past days. Her mornings were no longer slow and soft, they began with training under Kaelen’s sharp, demanding gaze. Every move, every strike, every dodge was a test.

The private field echoed with the sound of their blades clashing. Selene’s breath came in steady bursts. Sweat dripped down her temple, but she refused to stop.

“Again,” Kaelen ordered, his voice firm.

Her muscles burned, but she lifted her sword again. Her wolf stirred beneath ...