Together, we turned and ran toward the remaining werewolves. I hacked and cut down any of the beasts that dared come at me, while Wrathen bucked and kicked and used his wings to knock the others off their feet. With Ryker and his mount working in the distance, it wasn’t long before we defeated all the wolves as a team.
I was covered in blood.
Again.
This was becoming a weird-ass habit of mine, wasn’t it?
When everything was quiet, I searched the area for Ryker and saw him and the tailend of his mount disappearing around the town’s wall, probably searching for any stragglers.
Oh God. Could there be more?
Another guttural howl piercing the silence confirmed those fears.
Sloane,Wrathen’s voice ripped my attention away from Ryker and the werewolves.
I turned toward him.
You will make a fine leader someday.
My chest warmed.Thank you.
He dipped his head again.
Just then, a portal snapped open a few feet away.
I hesitated.
Wait, was the trial over? But not all the werewolves were defeated. The town wasn’t saved.
Did that mean I’d failed?
Wrathen snorted.Sloane, this trial tested empathy, ruthlessness, and keeping your word.Our deal was fulfilled. By showing me kindness, you demonstrated empathy. Empathy is not a weakness, but know that sometimes ruthlessness is also needed.
I glanced over my shoulder to where I last saw Ryker.
Wrathen bobbed his head.That one proved his ruthless side. He did not care about his mount’s health or safety. Only victory. But that was their deal.
I rolled my eyes. Of course, it was.
The village faded away, leaving a mist-covered field, a few wildflowers glowing under the moonlight.
Watch out for that one,Wrathen answered.
I reached out and scratched his muzzle.
Oh, I intend to.