Chapter Thirty-Four: Scars and Strength
The days after the battle were filled with quiet rebuilding.
The pack moved through Blackridge, healing the land and mending old wounds — both visible and invisible.
Rina walked with Kael beneath the ancient oaks, the weight of leadership settling gently around her shoulders.
"I thought the hardest part was the fight," she said softly, "but it's what comes after."
Kael nodded, his gaze steady. "Trust isn't rebuilt in a day."
She smiled, squeezing his hand. "No, but with you, I believe it can."
At the edge of the clearing, Elder Maeven approached, her eyes thoughtful.
"The flame in you burns bright, Rina," she said. "But remember — even the fiercest fire can warm or destroy."
Rina met her gaze with newfound clarity. "I choose to warm. For my pack. For us."
Kael pulled her close, his voice a whisper. "Together, we'll face whatever comes next."
And as the sun set behind the ridge, the pack gathered — a family stronger for the battles they had survived, and ready to face the future side by side.