Chapter 18: Blood of the Elders

*TRAE’S POV*

The air was thick with anticipation as we awaited Sage’s instructions.

“You must make a cut in the palm of your hand, then squeeze a single drop of your blood into the mouth of Trae and Grayson, one drop and no more!” she ordered, then turned to help her sister Ada cast a barrier shield over the house.

The healer's instructions echoed in my mind as I watched Mira try to prepare herself. A flicker of apprehension danced within me. I knew all too well the potency of her blood, how its mere scent had rendered me powerless. Yet, somehow, it was the very essence of her being that was required to protect her. As her protector, I had no choice.

“I, I’m trying to fight the seizure… my, my wolf, I mean… But I don’t think I can do it,” Mira stated with trembling hands.

"Be brave, Mira, you were destined for this," I whispered, my voice laced with encouragement. My eyes locked with hers and in that moment, we shared a connection that surpassed mere words, an unspoken trust.