Aria stood in the heart of the Moonstone Sanctuary's grand hall, the ceremonial fire roaring behind her. Flames danced across polished wooden pillars, casting shifting light on the assembled Circle: Solene, Rowan, Elena, Caleb, Marcus, and the pack elders, all seated around the ancient oak table. The tension in the room was heavy, like the calm before a storm.
Aria raised her chin, her voice clear and steady. "We completed the ritual. Elena is free from Mara's heart—at least, partially."
A hush fell. Elena touched the rune scar on her chest, her gaze distant but hopeful.
Rowan leaned forward. "Partially?" he asked quietly. "That implies danger."
"It's true," Solene admitted, seated beside Elena. "Elena still harbors remnants of Mara's essence. It's weaker—but undone magic can be unpredictable."
An elder, Greywolf Elder Jenra, glared. "We cannot gamble with our survival. Elena walking among us is a threat."
