Elena threw herself back into the fray, a whirlwind of tooth and claw. Her child fought by her side, their movements in perfect sync after years of training together.

The rival leader whirled on them, his muzzle twisted into an ugly sneer. "Your mate is dead, Elena. It's over!"

He lunged, aiming his lethal jaws at Elena's throat. She dodged nimbly and countered with a vicious swipe of her claws, opening a gash along his flank. He roared in pain and fury.

Nearby, Elena's packmates clashed with the enemy wolves, locked in brutal combat. Yips and yelps filled the air as they fought with everything they had. Despite their unwavering...