The valley shook under the approaching roar of wolves. Packs, rogue hunters, all drawn to me like predators to a scent. My mark pulsed violently, white-hot, warning me, urging me to rise.
"Stay close," Lucien said, voice calm but edged with tension. "They're organized. This isn't a test anymore—it's a hunt."
I clenched my fists. "Let them come."
From the shadows, Kaiden stepped forward. His presence hit me like a physical blow—authority, power, and something darker. Behind him, thirty warriors from his pack moved into formation, disciplined, deadly.
"I warned you," Kaiden said, gray eyes locked on mine. "You can't survive this alone."
"I don't need your help," I snapped, letting the mark flare, shockwaves rolling outward. Leaves tore from trees. Wolves yelped and staggered, thrown off balance. Even Kaiden's warriors froze for a heartbeat, sensing the energy emanating from me.
Lucien's hand brushed mine. "Focus," he whispered. "Your power is not just force. It's influence. Use it."
I inhaled sharply, centering myself. The rogue wolves lunged, coordinated, confident—but this time I was ready. Energy surged from my mark, controlled, precise. Wolves crashed into trees, yelps of panic echoing across the valley.
Kaiden stepped closer, watching every move, every reaction. Possession flickered in his gaze, but so did… something else. Respect. Curiosity. Calculated admiration.
"You're stronger than I imagined," he said, voice low. "And defiant."
"I'm not yours," I said, chest tight. "Never again."
He paused, wolf stirring beneath his skin. "Interesting," he murmured. "Very interesting."
The rogue pack faltered, regrouping, hesitation evident. But I didn't let up. White-hot energy flared, controlled this time, forcing them back. Fear spread through the valley like wildfire.
Lucien's eyes met mine. "Good. You're learning. Control and power together."
Kaiden's gaze lingered. Gray eyes darkened with thought. I realized then: this clash wasn't about survival anymore. It was about proving I was more than anyone expected—more than him, more than any pack, more than an Omega.
I raised my hands again, letting the mark pulse, declaring myself. The wind whipped, trees groaned, and even Kaiden's wolf growled softly, acknowledging a force it couldn't claim, yet wanted.