Thane’s POV

The weight of Ryan’s defeat clung to the air as Astella and I exited the chamber. The sounds of battle outside had diminished, replaced by the eerie stillness that followed victory.

As we stepped into the courtyard, the pack’s warriors turned to face us, their eyes reflecting a mixture of relief and disbelief. Dre’s mother approached, blood streaked across her armor, her expression unyielding despite the exhaustion etched into her features.

“It’s done,” I said, the words feeling surreal. “Ryan won’t hurt us anymore.”

A collective breath seemed to exhale from the group, the tension breaking like a dam. Some fell to their knees in relief, others embraced...