Torches blazed around the ceremonial circle as the full moon climbed higher in the night sky. Aurora stood nervously in the preparation tent, dressed in a white gown adorned with silver symbols of protection. Outside, hundreds of wolves from neighboring packs had gathered for the celebration despite the danger that lurked in the shadows.
"We should have postponed this," Aurora whispered as Markus adjusted the silver crown on her head.
"Canceling would cause panic," Markus reminded her. "And Eli believes a united front is our best defense. The mating ceremony completes the pack merger."
Aurora nodded, but her thoughts drifted to Tina and Rosie, somewhere in the wilderness tracking Dante. Four hours had passed since they'd left, with no word.
"It's time," Lyra announced, poking her head into the tent. The young fighter had recovered from her injuries and now served as Aurora's personal guard.
