The training facilityPerrinIt was unusual to see so many of us training at one time. So many pack warriors--of course from all different packs, but--it was incredibly nonetheless.By the time I had put on my gear, there were guys on the obstacle courses, countless others doing weights and sparring--and outside on the far side of the facility, some of the challengers had shifted into their wolves and were training for the phased part of the challenge.The Sacred Call had two physical challenges. The first, was in human-form. Both Beta and Alpha challengers had to beat their opponents in hand-to-hand combat. It runs as a tournament with timed rounds. Kind of like boxing, but you get points for each time you land a hit on your opponent, and likewise if you can defend yourself. When th

LeilaI’m not really sure I’m ready to see Ethan based on what my Dad said, so I brace myself.I walk in and take a seat.I’m feeling a lot of emotions. But looking at Ethan--the real Ethan, this time--I can’t believe I had ever mistaken Jack for my childhood friend.His silver hair is matted against his forehead. It’s slightly greasy and flecked with dried blood, but it’s Ethan’s hair to be sure. His eyes are closed--I’m not sure if he’s sleeping or in a coma, but there’s a large eye patch covering one eye. While his face is serene, there’s a hint of that devilish smile I remember from when we were kids.I take a step out of the nostalgia for a better look.

LeilaWhat do you wear to dinner with the Luna?I still hadn’t unpacked, and most of the decent things I had to wear were wrinkled and still crumpled in my suitcase. I ruefully entertain the idea of wearing the silver dress from last night.It wouldn’t make my father happy, that’s for sure.Speak of the devil. My phone buzzes from the bed.DAD: I heard you’re going out to dinner with the Luna tonight.LEILA: The rumor mill flies fast around here, doesn’t it?DAD: Is it true?LEILA: Yes.DAD:

LeilaI laid the shopping bags out all over the room. Heading into the bathroom, I threw on some music and started to do my makeup.Light eyeshadow, dark liner, and natural blush. Perfect.I got out my flat iron and started shaping my hair. If it’s one thing I thanked my mother for, it was this manageable mane. My best friend in Texas, Gia, had something wild and untamable in the best of times.I was almost done when I heard a knock on the door.“Come in.”To my surprise, my father entered the room, his face ablaze with anger.“What…. exactly…” his voice was threateningly calm, “did you do this afternoon?&rd

KiraBeing chewed out by the Alpha was a total buzzkill after a great afternoon connecting with Leila. It was great to see her again.Heading to our family’s suite, I stopped to see if my mother was in. There was a note on the hall table. Gone to see Ethan. Not sure when I’ll be back.Well, progress was progress. At least she was going to see him now. She was fine when I had seen her this morning while we cleaned but recognizing the parallels between my dad and Ethan was a different story.I grab the shopping bags I had flung in disarray and bring them to my bedroom. Without even realizing it, I had started changing into my running gear.Grabbing