Seren stood between the triplets and Magnus, her smaller frame trembling with exhaustion. Blood matted the dark fur along her shoulders and arms. Her golden-flecked eyes burned with defiance even as her legs threatened to give out beneath her. The bond between the four of them was a roaring inferno of pain, love, and raw will to survive. It was the only thing still holding them upright.
Magnus loomed over them, his silver-streaked fur dark with blood. He breathed heavily but stood tall, eyes gleaming with cold triumph. Decades of dominance battles had made him a monster in combat. Even against three alphas and their mate, he had nearly broken them all.
"You fought well," he growled, voice thick with satisfaction. "But it ends here. You all will be dead."
He took a slow, deliberate step forward, claws extended, gaze locked on Seren with predatory hunger.
