The world felt empty.
Maria knelt at the edge of the ravine, scorched earth and beneath her paws, the echo of Kael's screams still burning in her ears.
Silver fire flared along her arms, but it could not reach him not yet.
The Moonlight around her flickered, dimmed by the lingering shadow of the Ashen King's power.
She closed her eyes and drew a deep breath.
Grief clawed at her chest, but beneath it, something hotter, fiercer rage.
Not just for herself, not just for the pack but for Kael.
The Ashen King had taken him.
He had tried to break him.
And he had dared to challenge Maria herself
"I will bring him back," she whispered to the Moon, her voice trembling but unwavering.
"No power, no darkness, no shadow in this world will stop me."
The Moon responded with a pale, silvery glow, bathing the landscape in ethereal light.
Its energy pulsed through her, wrapping her in strength, courage, and clarity. Her wolf surged within her, coiling like a storm ready to explode.
Maria stood, shaking off exhaustion and doubt.
She could feel her power growing not just raw strength, but mastery.
Every movement, every thought, every heartbeat was aligned with the Moon.
Her pack would follow her anywhere. Her enemies would fear her.
And the Ashen King he would learn the true cost of challenging a Luna.
She raised her hands, silver fire blazing around them.
The wind whipped through her fur, carrying her determination across the forest.
"I swear on the Moon," she whispered, teeth bared in a fierce snarl, "I will find you, Kael.
I will tear down your chains. And the Ashen King will pay for every drop of blood he shed"
A low howl rose from the shadows behind her. Wolves emerged, drawn by her power, their loyalty unwavering.
They pressed close, their eyes shining with trust and anticipation.
Maria knelt again, resting her hand on the earth, feeling the Moon's pulse beneath her fingertips.
The path ahead would be dangerous.
Corrupted lands, necrotic creatures, and the Ashen King's traps awaited,but she was no longer just a fighter. She was the Luna.
She rose,her body glowing with silver light.
The storm inside her had become a weapon.
The vow she had made to the Moon, to her pack, and to Kael itself burned hotter than any fear or pain.
The hunt had begun.
And Maria would not fail.