Nearly an hour later the forest suddenly opened into a wide hidden valley.
Lena stopped in amazement.
A settlement stretched across the clearing, lit by firelight and lanterns. Wooden lodges surrounded a massive fire pit where several wolves gathered.
Some walked on four legs.
Others shifted into human form as they crossed the clearing.
"This is the Blackwood Pack," Kael said.
Conversations stopped as the wolves noticed Lena.
Whispers spread quickly through the valley.
"Who is she?" someone murmured.
Kael's voice was firm.
"She's under my protection."
A tall elderly woman stepped forward from near the fire.
Her silver hair shimmered in the firelight and her sharp eyes focused on Lena.
"This must be the girl," she said calmly.
Kael nodded.
"Eira," he said respectfully. "Can you tell what she is?"
The woman approached slowly and placed her hand gently against Lena's forehead.
Warm energy spread through Lena's body.
For a moment the entire clearing went silent.
Then Eira gasped softly.
"The prophecy…" she whispered.
Kael frowned.
"What prophecy?"
Eira turned toward Lena, her expression filled with awe.
"The Moonborn has returned."