The pack house shook as Elara's silver light exploded outward, shattering every shadow thing in a fifty-foot radius.
The Council of Shadows' servants dissolved into smoke, their dying screams echoing across the region.
"The first trial is complete," the ancient voices hissed from the retreating darkness. "But you have only delayed the inevitable, Bridge Walker." "Come back and say that to my face," Ronan snarled, his flames dancing around three saved pack members.
But the shadows were already gone, leaving behind only the smell of burnt magic and terror. "Is everyone okay?" Elara asked, running to check on the young wolves they'd saved. Two teens and one new mother, all unconscious but breathing.
"They're alive," Darian confirmed, his truth-sight scanning for injuries. "Weak, but unharmed." "For now," Kael said sadly. "The Council said this was just the first test. There are six more coming." "Then we'll face them," Elara said strongly. "Together."
