Chapter Thirteen: Blood and Bond
The fight dragged on, fierce and unrelenting. The rogue beasts were relentless, their snarls echoing through the trees like thunder. Rina's claws tore through one attacker, but another slashed at her side. Pain flared, sharp and burning, yet she refused to falter.
Kael's voice cut through the chaos. "Rina, now!"
Their eyes met—the bond blazing brighter than ever—and together they unleashed a synchronized strike. Kael's powerful jaws clamped down on a beast's neck while Rina's claws raked across its flank, sending it crashing to the ground.
Breathing hard, Rina staggered back, sweat and blood mingling on her skin. Kael was by her side in an instant, steadying her with a rough hand.
"You're stronger than you know," he said, his voice rough with emotion.
Rina's heart swelled with something fierce and tender. "I'm yours," she whispered.
He cupped her face, eyes shining. "And I'll fight for you, always."
The rogue beasts, broken and defeated, retreated into the shadows. The pack's triumphant howls filled the night.
But Rina knew the war wasn't over. Not yet.