Chaos erupted across Blackwood Valley.
The first arrow struck the training post, but several more followed immediately. Wolves scattered across the clearing as alarms echoed between the wooden lodges.
"Inside!" Kael shouted to Lena.
But she barely heard him. Her attention locked on the hooded figures stepping silently from the forest.
There were at least eight witches.
Their cloaks moved strangely in the wind, and purple light flickered around their hands.
One stepped forward.
Even from a distance Lena could feel the dark magic surrounding her.
Selene.
The witch lowered her hood, revealing pale skin and sharp violet eyes.
"Well," she called calmly. "The prophecy truly lives."
Kael moved protectively in front of Lena.
"You won't take her," he growled.
Selene smiled faintly.
"Oh Alpha," she replied, "I don't need to take her."
Her gaze shifted to Lena.
"I only need her power."
The witches began chanting.
Purple energy gathered between their hands, spreading across the valley like a growing storm.
Wolves rushed forward to defend the pack.
Kael shifted instantly into his wolf form, dark fur bristling as he lunged toward the attackers.
Lena's heart pounded.
The wind around her feet began to rise again.
Silver light flickered across her hands.
Selene watched with fascination.
"Yes," the witch whispered.
"Show me the power of the Moonborn."