Avery's heart raced as the echoes of battle faded into the stillness of the fortress. The scent of blood and sweat mingled in the air as she scanned the chamber, her eyes searching urgently for the familiar faces of her mates. Relief flooded through her as she spotted them, their expressions a mix of exhaustion and elation as they tended to their wounded and secured the area.

Without hesitation, Avery hurried towards them, her steps quickening with each stride. Her chest tightened with a ...