FATED BY BLOOD AND FIRE

ill

the narrow bed of the cabin with the flavour of smoke and ash lingering on my tongue. I place my hands against the coarse wooden boards to

gs as my muscles hold onto the haunting presence of past agony. While my skin shows no signs of injury today, I

acle. The glass reveals my image with eyes that show madness and a heart burdened by sorrow. My throat constri

ls. I put my ear against the wooden surface to detect brief moments of panic and worry. His

seeing Lucien fall to the ground while his fur becomes stained with dirt and blood. An uncontrollable power surge erupte

ides cool comfort to my fingertips while I inhale its stable strength. I promise myself to remain tranquil while hiding

d bird. Fear and longing fight for dominance in my mind before I ask a quiet "Who is it?" When Lucien resp

lips move as though he wants to speak, but then they close back together in anguish. I step back, making way for him to

swallow as we both wait for words that remain unknown to us. As the bedside candle flickers its light, it

rn in his tone sends a shocking wave of uncertain emotion through me. I give a

brings back memories of warmth and safety that overwhelm my senses. Standing stiff in my body, I battle

ain. My eyes catch the smudge on his cheek before I reach up to wipe it off. When I to

g me ignites unexpected flames within me. I nod reluctantly and

build. His back captures my gaze as each contour reveals his deep regret. Trembling finge

reaches the door before quickly exiting to call for the pack's healer. My cloak follows behind me as I am pulle

injured wolf and applies his touch with a blend of gentleness and confidence. His raw care for his k

retreating into the darkness. He resumes reading the instructions for the healing salve from the aged scro

n the background because I feel simultaneously included in and separated from the group he guides. The elder adva

manage a courteous nod while keeping my inner turmoil hidden. As he faces his pack again, I quietly exit

n every intense exchange during training and confession while feeling the blaze of past love mixed with new remorse. I s

eeks on their own. Coming from behind me, a deep growl causes me to raise my head. Lucien emerges into the

takes my breath away as the warmth spreads through my bones. My eyes shut as I b

rd stands vacant as it resonates with unfulfilled commitments. His touch left my skin tingling and served as a stark wa

Camilla". He advances toward me with solemn eyes. I steady my stance, placing my hand on my cloak as I pr

racefully across the surface, which feels both cold and commanding. The token lies heavy in my hand while its weight drives

ward while I remain trapped between untouchable tomorrows. Moonlight fills the courtyard while the token