The Lycan King’s Pawn
The morning sun was just starting to crest over the jagged snow peaks, casting a warm golden light over the clearing.
Standing on a stone platform at the far edge of the woods were King Kaelen, Lady Lyra, and the three elders.
When Kaelen saw me walk out of the trees covered in mud, blood, and black soot, but completely alive his jaw tightened, and a rare, genuine smile touched his lips.
"She survived," Kaelen announced, his deep voice carrying across the morning air. "Valeria of the Bloodmoon Pack has passed the first trial. She has earned permanent asylum in the North."