Kael's POV.
I strode through the Shadow Claw packhouse, my boots heavy on the stone floor, the air cool, the torches flickering, casting dim shadows on the walls.
My ash-gray shirt clung to my chest, my side throbbing under the bandage, the unhealing wound burning, but my heart was heavier, my mind on the Lunar Festival, Aria's burden as Luna Celeste, and the elders' demands.
Brian followed close, his armor clinking, his brown eyes alert, his steps quick, matching mine. We checked on every Gamma, their faces tense, their reports sharp, guards at the gates, patrols in the forest, weapons ready.
The festival's security had to be perfect, no mistakes, no threats, especially after Elijah's betrayal, the fire, his death.
My heart raced, my fists clenching, my wolf, Zeus, growling, his protectiveness fierce, urging me to keep Aria safe, to shield Sonia and Liam, to hold my pack together.
"Gate secure?" I asked Gamma Torren, his gray eyes steady, his hands gripping a spear.
