POV: Riley
Riley stood in the clearing of the pack's training grounds, her muscles tensed with determination. The early morning sunlight filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground. She took a deep breath, the crisp morning air filling her lungs.
"Mason, are you sure about this?" she asked, turning to her mate who stood nearby, his expression serious yet encouraging.
Mason nodded, his eyes locking with hers. "You're ready for this, Riley. You've been training hard, and your instincts are strong."
Riley clenched her fists, trying to quell the nerves that fluttered in her stomach. Ever since the council had discussed the increased rogue activity, Riley had felt a growing need to improve her combat skills. She couldn't afford to be caught off guard, not when the safe
