Chapter Seven: Fire and Fangs
The air was electric, thick with anticipation.
The pack gathered at the edge of the forest, muscles coiled, eyes gleaming in the dim light. Warriors sharpened blades and tightened grips on bows. Mothers whispered prayers, and children hid behind sturdy backs.
Kael stood at the forefront, a wall of strength and command. Beside him, Rina's fingers trembled — but her resolve was steel.
"This is our home," Kael's voice rang out, steady and sure. "We fight not just for land, but for the future of our pack. For our family."
A chorus of growls and fierce affirmations rose.
From the shadows, Varek stepped forward, flanked by Rogues snarling and snapping. His eyes locked on Rina, dark with hunger and malice.
"You don't belong here," he spat. "And I'm taking what should have been mine."
Kael's gaze blazed. "Over my dead body."
Before anyone could move, a sharp cry shattered the stillness.
Rina felt heat flare through her veins — something wild awakening. Her skin prickled, heart racing as instincts foreign yet fierce took hold.
Without thinking, she stepped forward.
"Stay back!" Kael growled, but she was already moving.
The pack fell silent, watching as she faced Varek.
"No," she said firmly, voice steady despite the whirlwind inside. "You will not touch me. You will not take me."
Varek laughed, a cold, cruel sound. He lunged — fast and furious.
Rina dodged, barely.
Then, in a sudden, blinding rush, the bond between her and Kael surged.
She saw through his eyes—his strength, his fury, his protection.
The wild power thrummed beneath her skin.
Rina roared.
The world shifted.
She didn't know how, but she could feel the wolf inside, fierce and unyielding.
With a scream, she threw herself at Varek.