The morning sun slanted through the trees around Moonflare, painting the clearing in gold and shadow. The packhouse was quiet inside, the guardians resting, the younger wolves still asleep and our son clinging to Asher, already babbling in the soft morning light. Outside, the air hummed with anticipation. Today wasn’t just another training session. Today, Taryn and Justin would face the trials that would truly cement their place in the pack.
I adjusted my stance near the edge of the clearing, Asher by my side. “This isn’t about proving strength.” I said quietly. “It’s about proving you understand what it means to be part of Moonflare. The pack comes first, always.”
The two new members stood at attention, eyes bright but tense. Taryn’s posture was alert, determined. Justin’s expression wa
