The forest was quiet now, the kind of quiet that followed a storm. The devastation from the final battle with Lucien had left its mark — scorched earth, broken trees, and scars that would take months to heal.
Nyra walked among the pack, silver veins glowing faintly, checking on the injured and offering reassurance. Wolves nuzzled her, recognizing her as their true leader. Kael stayed at her side, ever watchful, his golden eyes scanning the shadows.
"You've done well," Kael said softly, brushing her hair from her face. "The pack respects you… they trust you."
Nyra nodded, exhaustion weighing on her, but there was a quiet satisfaction in her chest. "It's not just me," she said. "We did it together — the pack, you… all of us."
Eryndor approached, limping slightly from battle. "Lucien's retreat is a blessing," he said, voice filled with relief. "But we can't let our guard down. The Shadow Wolf was only one of his tools. Who knows what he'll try next?"
Nyra's silver light flared, instinctively responding to the thought. "I feel it too. Something's coming… or at least, something isn't finished yet."
Kael's hand found hers, squeezing firmly. "Whatever it is, we face it together. And the pack will follow your lead. You've earned it."
As the pack began repairs, rebuilding shelters and tending wounds, Nyra found a quiet moment alone with Kael near the river. The water reflected the Blood Moon above, silver and crimson.
"You were incredible," Kael whispered, wrapping an arm around her. "Every move, every decision… you led the pack perfectly."
Nyra smiled faintly, leaning against him. "I'm still learning," she admitted. "But with you… I feel stronger than ever."
Kael pressed a gentle kiss to her temple. "And you're mine," he murmured. "Always. Nothing can change that — not even Lucien."
A ripple of movement caught Nyra's attention. From the shadows, a faint red glow pulsed — the remnants of the Shadow Wolf, watching, learning, waiting.
Nyra's chest tightened, a mixture of triumph and unease. "The fight may be over," she whispered, "but the war… isn't finished yet."
Kael's golden eyes met hers, unwavering. "Then we prepare. Together. Always."
The Blood Moon hung high, calm and steady, casting its silver glow over Shadowfang territory — a symbol of victory, resilience, and the promise of battles yet to come.