The drums inside the ceremonial hall stopped the moment the high priestess raised her staff. The crowd's noise slowly settled. Hundreds of wolves stood shoulder to shoulder in the grand entrance of Lycanthria, waiting for the final declaration of the Bonding Rite. Every pair of eyes remained fixed on the five people at the center of the room.
Aveloria stood in front, steady and calm. Behind her were Marek, Theron, Lucien, and Galen, each watching her closely. The Moon twine from the earlier ritual still rested on their wrists.
The high priestess finally spoke, her voice steady and loud enough to reach everyone without difficulty.
"The five souls are linked. The Moon recognizes this bond. It is final."
The reaction was instant. The entire hall erupted in cheers. Some clapped loudly, others shouted Aveloria's name, and many stomped their boots on the ground. The sound filled every corner of the hall.
"The bond is real!!"
"The future Queen has an unmatched strength."
