A massive creature emerged, half-wolf, half-spirit. Its fur shimmered with silver and midnight. Its eyes were molten gold.
It towered above them, ancient and terrifying.
“The Guardian,” Kael whispered, his voice awed. “It’s real.”
The Guardian’s voice boomed directly into Aria’s mind:
“Blood of the Moon… why do you disturb my slumber?”
Aria stepped forward, palms raised.
“I seek your strength. The pack is in danger. A betrayal brews from within. I must protect my people.”
The Guardian stared down at her, nose twitching as if scenting the truth in her soul.
“You carry the Flame. You bear the Mark. But power alone is not enough.”
The monolith behind it cracked open, revealing a silver bow and a quiver of radiant arrows.
“To wield this, you must give up fear. You must choose your pa
