THE ETERNAL HOWL

casual conversations could erase. Kael's health had been the center of every whispered co

e powerful form reduced to exhaustion and pain. Selene stayed by his side, g

sat near the riverbank. The sun was warm, the rippling

elene," he replied, his tone firm but his eyes betraying the w

ly around her knees. "It's not weakness to

his lips. "I'm not weak," he said, almost

ronger, and even managed a sparring session with his Beta, Ald

ric joked, offering Kael

g sweat from his br

oken fear. He never talked about the blackouts, the moments of silence that had consumed him before. I

ant echoes. His body felt stronger, his steps steadier, and the fog clouding his thoughts

but as the days turned into weeks, Kael conv

ked through the forest, his voice calm but firm. "It was no

gut told her the peace was temporary. She didn't voice her concerns. "I'm just gla

ng about?" she asked

ees, fingers tapping a restless rhythm. "Do you ever wonde

ee her hesitation. "It won't. You're stronger tha

oftening. "I know," he said simpl

nse days of Kael's illness. The hunts resumed, the celebrations ret

He trained harder than ever, pushed himself to the brink, and recl

she reached for his hand. "Kael," she said sof

er, his expres

"if something feels wrong, an

hen gave a small

lene saw the shadow pass over his

mind, a quiet voice w

nt waves of excitement through the pack. Selene's p

ugh Selene's hair, sitting by the fire. "You're going to be Luna

led with pride. "You'll stand beside Kael, not just as h

st hoping everything goes smoothly,"

be perfect. Now let's make sure your ceremonial robe

ael prepared for the ceremony with hi

. She held a long strip of woven fabric, a symbol of their lineage. "W

"She deserves it. Selene has been with me through i

this, Kael. The pack looks up to you because you've sho

l clearing, their voices buzzing with excitement. The elders

orned with silver embroidery that sparked in the firelight. Her dark

he-wolf whispered to her friend

ace," another replied. "

gold, symbolizing strength and leadership. His face w

t. The elders began their chants, and