The fires burned bright into the evening at Shadow Ridge, casting golden light over stone walls and weathered faces. The air was thick with the scent of roasting meat and sweet smoke, but Elara's mind remained sharp, wary despite the celebrations.
After her victory in the Circle of Claws, the warriors had accepted her—but acceptance was not the same as trust. She could see it in the way some eyes lingered on her too long, in the whispers that drifted like mist around the camp.
Kael stood beside her, a steady presence as always, his hand occasionally brushing against hers in silent reassurance. Ravynn lounged nearby, keeping a careful watch with a casualness that was anything but careless.
Selene approached, a goblet of dark wine in her hand.
"You fought well," the Alpha said, her tone neither warm nor cold. "Few best our champion."
"I fought for more than just pride," Elara answered, her gaze unwavering. "I fought for survival—for all of us."
Selene studied her a moment longer, then nodded. "Walk with me."
Elara followed as they weaved through the gathering, ascending a narrow stairwell that led to a tower overlooking the ridge. Below them, the warriors laughed and drank, oblivious to the cold, tense conversation beginning above.
"You must understand," Selene said, her voice low. "My people value strength. They follow it. But strength alone won't win you every pack."
"I know," Elara replied. "That's why I'm asking for loyalty, not obedience. I want allies, not pawns."
Selene's lips twitched into a faint, rare smile. "Careful, Moonborn. Speak too wisely, and some might fear you even more."
A gust of wind tugged at their cloaks, carrying with it a chilling sense of unease. In the distance, the forest loomed like a dark, waiting sea.
"There are already enemies among us," Selene continued. "Not all who claim to stand with you will stay true. Vael's influence runs deeper than rumors. Some have already sold their souls for promises of power."
Elara tightened her hands into fists. "Then we'll root them out."
Selene looked at her sharply. "You'll need more than a blade for that. You'll need a heart willing to sacrifice—and a mind sharp enough to see betrayal before it strikes."
Elara nodded grimly. "I'll be ready."
As they descended back into the warmth of the fires, Elara caught Kael's gaze across the crowd. His silent question hung in the air:
Are you sure you can trust them?
Elara's heart steeled itself.
Trust would have to be earned—or broken.
Either way, the war for the future had already begun.