The power burst from Lena like a rising storm.
Wind roared across the valley, lifting dust and leaves into the air as silver light exploded outward.
The witches were thrown backward instantly.
Several crashed against the trees lining the clearing.
Even the wolves staggered beneath the sudden force.
Kael grabbed Lena's shoulders.
"Stop!" he shouted. "You're going to destroy the valley!"
But Lena could barely hear him.
The energy inside her was spiraling beyond control.
Visions flashed through her mind.
Moonlight over ancient forests.
Witches standing beside wolves beneath a silver sky.
Then flames.
War.
The power surged again.
Selene rose slowly from the ground, her cloak torn but her smile unchanged.
"Beautiful," she whispered.
Eira stepped forward quickly.
"Lena, listen to my voice," the elder called.
"Breathe slowly. The Moonborn draws power from balance."
Lena forced herself to inhale.
The silver light trembled around her hands.
"Good," Eira continued. "Now release the anger."
The storm around Lena weakened slightly.
Kael watched her carefully.
"You're stronger than this," he said quietly.
Lena focused on his voice.
The wind slowed.
The light faded.
Silence returned to the valley.
Selene studied Lena thoughtfully.
"This changes everything," she said.
Then the witch disappeared into the forest shadows.