Chapter 67

Victoria The meditation room was bathed in soft, amber light when I entered. Carson had outdone himself—potted plants lined the walls, creating a miniature indoor garden. The scent of earth and green things filled the air, instantly calming my frayed nerves. In the center of the room sat a plush meditation cushion surrounded by a circle of small river stones. "Will this work?" Carson asked, hovering uncertainly by the door. His usual confidence had given way to awkward curiosity. I smiled, already feeling the plants reaching out to my consciousness like curious children. "It's perfect. Thank you." After he left, I settled onto the cushion, crossing my legs and resting my hands on my knees. "Ready, Ava?" I whispered. *We need to find them,* Ava's thoughts flowed into mine. *The pack needs its Alpha.* I closed my eyes, breathing deeply as I had in the nexus chamber. "Show me how," I murmured. I felt Ava's instincts guide me, drawing from ancient memories that seemed to belong to neither