SilverBell Roost

Silverbell crouched low in the grass, her muscles coiled as she prepared to spring. The scent of her target—a hare—was fresh in her nose. Her heart thudded in her chest, but she kept her focus razor-sharp. This was just another step in proving herself, not only to Roost and Ashen but to the entire pack.

When the moment came, she leaped with precision, landing cleanly and finishing the hunt quickly. Pride surged through her as she carried her prize back to the clearing, where Roost waited with an approving nod.

"Well done," he said. "Your patience is paying off."

Ashen stepped forward, brushing against Silverbell's side. "You're making us proud, Silverbell. Keep this up, and no one will question your place here."

The words meant more to her than she could express. She had always felt the need to work twice as hard, knowing her place in the pack was not by birth but by Roost and Ashen's choice.

As she laid the hare down, Marbled approached with a warm smile. "You've got a knack for this," he said. "If you ever want to help with the hunts full-time, let me know."

"I'd like that," Silverbell replied, her tone steady but humble.

Later that day, she sparred with Riftbound, who often took on the role of her mentor during training sessions. His claws were faster, his movements sharper, but Silverbell didn't back down. She lunged at him, her determination blazing even when he easily dodged her strikes.

"Good effort," Riftbound said, stepping back. "But remember—power isn't everything. Watch your opponent's movements, anticipate their next step."

Silverbell nodded, her eyes narrowing with renewed focus. "Let's go again."

By nightfall, she joined the pack around the firepit, sitting between Roost and Ashen. Cottagecheese nudged her playfully. "Careful, Silverbell. If you keep outshining the rest of us, we might start getting jealous."

Silverbell laughed, relaxing for the first time all day. She had worked hard, and the pack had noticed. Slowly but surely, she was carving out her place among them.