Kael and Morvienne turned back to the stone altar, the full moon now hanging directly overhead, casting a brilliant silver glow over everything.

The Elder stepped forward again, his voice solemn and deep. He called upon the Moon Goddess and the ancestors to witness the union, speaking of sacred bonds of love, loyalty, and sacrifice. He spoke of the joining of two souls, not just as mates, but as leaders of the pack.

Afterward, he produced a ceremonial knife with a blade of polished obsidian. He took Kael's hand first, making a small, clean cut across his palm. Then, he did the same for Morvienne.

"Join your hands," the Elder...