The air around them was thick with anticipation as Lyra stood in the open courtyard, her heart pounding in her chest. The wolves around her moved with a quiet efficiency, preparing for the battle that was sure to come. But her mind was elsewhere—focused on the power that had surged through her, and the terrifying thought that she might not be able to control it again.
Kael stood a few feet away, watching her closely. His piercing gaze made her skin tingle, but this wasn't the time for distractions. She needed to focus, to figure out how to summon the power without losing herself in it.
"You don't have to do this alone, Lyra," Kael said, stepping closer to her. His voice was soft, but there was an edge of concern that he couldn't quite hide.
