Fiona's POV
The next morning, the training grounds buzzed with activity. The crisp scent of pine and earth mingled with the faint tang of sweat and exertion as warriors sparred, their movements swift and deliberate. I made my way across the field, my muscles already warming up for the session ahead. Stella was waiting near the far edge, her stance relaxed but her expression sharp.
"You're late," she teased, a grin tugging at her lips.
I rolled my eyes, tossing my water bottle onto the ground. "Some of us have responsibilities beyond throwing punches all day."
"Excuses, excuses," Stella quipped, tossing me a wooden staff. "Let's see if your Alpha duties have dulled your reflexes."
Snow huffed in my mind, her competitive streak flaring. "She's going to regret that comment."
I grinned. "Not a chance."
