The sacred stones shimmered under the moonlight, casting long shadows across the clearing where Jax stood barefoot, surrounded by the carved ancient circle. The stones hummed with a quiet energy that seemed to settle deep in the bones of every werewolf present. A hush had fallen over the family as they watched, joined by Alaric and Ainsley. A rustle of leaves nearby announced the arrival of Jared and Eva, with their pup, William, sleeping against Eva's shoulder. "Sorry we're late," Eva apologized, "there was an accident on the highway and we were stuck in traffic, and we forgot to bring our phone chargers."
"I'm glad you made it, I was starting to worry," Della hugged her, and kissed her nephew's head. "How is Willy doing?" The pup's eyes opened, and a big smile lit up his face as he saw Della.
"Auntie Della!" He exclaimed in his little voice, reaching out to her for a hug. "Is it time for Jax to turn in to a wolf yet?"
