A new sun rose over the pack territory like an untouched scroll in Emma's life, blank yet heavy with unseen markings of fate. Ever since her Alpha had declared that he was weary of spending his hard-earned resources on her learning rites, she no longer knew what path lay ahead. The thought of stepping into the learning academy again felt uncertain, almost forbidden.
Emma slowly rolled from her resting place, her body still heavy from restless thoughts, and made her way toward the cookhouse to assist her mother with morning duties. Her steps were quiet, cautious—like a young wolf unsure of her place within the den.
"Moonrise, mother," Emma greeted softly, lowering her gaze in respect.
No answer came.
The silence pressed against her chest, colder than any winter wind.
Without another word, she moved toward the water basin and began cleansing the eating vessels used the previous night, her hands working automatically while her mind wandered.
