Chapter 92

Shea and Achilles circled each other on the training ground, their movements precise and measured. The morning sun cast long shadows across the packed earth as they sparred, testing each other's defenses.

"Good," Achilles called out as Shea blocked his strike. "Now remember to keep your core engaged while you—"

She spun inside his guard, just as he'd taught her, landing a solid hit to his ribs. Achilles grunted, more from surprise than pain.

"Like that?" Shea asked, dancing back with a grin.

"Exactly like that." Pride colored his voice. "Your instincts are getting sharper."

They continued trading blows, their movements becoming more fluid and natural. Shea felt the wolf inside her responding to the exercise, lending her extra speed and strength. Her senses sharpened, catching the subtle shifts in Achilles's stance that telegraphed his next move.

"You're holding back," she accused, dodging another strike.

"Am I?" Achilles raised an eyebrow, then suddenly swept her legs out from under her.

Shea rolled with the fall, coming up in a crouch. "Now that's more like it."

They moved faster now, their sparring taking on an almost dance-like quality. Shea felt herself responding not just to Achilles's movements, but to his presence, their connection humming between them like a live wire.

A particularly complex sequence ended with them pressed close together, both breathing hard. Achilles's hands steadied her waist, his touch sending sparks through her even through the fabric of her training clothes.

"Your control is improving," he murmured, not stepping back. "Soon you'll be able to shift at will."

Shea tilted her head up to meet his gaze. "Again, that's all because I have a good teacher."

The tension between them crackled, making her skin tingle. Before either could act on it, the sound of approaching footsteps made them spring apart.

Lucius strode into the training area, a leather-bound journal tucked under his arm. His eyes flickered between Achilles and Shea, noting their flushed faces and slightly disheveled appearance.

"I see the training's going well," he said, his tone neutral but his eyes twinkling. "Shea, your form has improved considerably."

"Thank you," Shea brushed some dirt off her training clothes. "Though I still have a lot to learn."

Achilles crossed his arms, maintaining a carefully professional distance from her now. "She's a quick study. The wolf blood in her is strong."

Lucius tucked the journal under his arm and stepped closer, his bearing regal yet approachable. "You've put in remarkable effort, Shea. The way you've embraced your heritage and training speaks volumes about your character."

Shea's cheeks flushed at the praise. "Thank you. I just want to be prepared for whatever comes next."

"Speaking of which," Lucius glanced between her and Achilles, "we'll be departing for the faction meeting tomorrow evening. The old church on neutral grounds, as previously discussed."

Achilles's posture stiffened slightly. "Has there been any word from the other factions about attendance?"

"All have confirmed," Lucius nodded. "Even the smaller packs will send representatives. This meeting could determine the course of our future."

Shea wiped sweat from her brow with the back of her hand. "The church - is it the one near the eastern border of Lockewood?"

"The very same," Lucius confirmed. "It's stood abandoned for decades, but the sacred ground makes it ideal for these gatherings. No blood can be shed there without severe consequences."

"Which is precisely why it was chosen," Achilles added, his eyes meeting Shea's. "Even Hawkins wouldn't dare violate that ancient law."

Lucius tucked the journal into his coat pocket and straightened his collar. "That's enough training for today. Both of you should rest up - tomorrow will be demanding."

"What about the preparations for the meeting?" Achilles asked, grabbing a towel to wipe his face.

"Alaric and I will handle those." Lucius's tone carried the weight of authority. "We need to secure the church grounds, verify the protective wards are still active, and meet with our allies beforehand."

Shea stepped forward. "Is there anything we can help with?"

"The best thing you two can do is conserve your strength." Lucius's expression softened. "Alaric and I won't return until tomorrow morning. The mansion's defenses are active, and Marcus will be patrolling the perimeter tonight."

"Understood," Achilles nodded, his hand unconsciously moving closer to Shea's.

"We'll leave within the hour," Lucius continued. "There's fresh meat in the kitchen for dinner, and please - try to get some actual sleep tonight."

The slight emphasis on 'sleep' made both Achilles and Shea flush red. Lucius pretended not to notice their embarrassment as he turned to leave the training area.

"Oh, and one more thing," he paused at the doorway. "No sneaking out this time. The woods aren't safe right now - too many unfamiliar scents. Stay within the mansion's boundaries."

Achilles and Shea exchanged glances as Lucius's footsteps faded down the hallway. Through the window, they could see Alaric loading supplies into one of the black SUVs parked in the circular driveway.

Alaric caught sight of them through the window and gave them a knowing smile and gentle nod before returning to his tasks. Shea felt her cheeks warm at his expression - it seemed everyone in the mansion had picked up on the energy between her and Achilles.

"Well," Achilles said as they walked down the corridor together, his hand brushing against hers. "Looks like we have the whole place to ourselves tonight."

"Mhmm," Shea hummed, looking up at him through her lashes. "Whatever shall we do with all this privacy?"

"I can think of a few things." His voice dropped lower, sending pleasant shivers down her spine. "Though we should probably clean up first after training."

They reached Shea's room, and she leaned against the doorframe, playing with the hem of her training shirt. "You know, the shower in here is pretty spacious..."

Achilles stepped closer, bracketing her against the door with one arm. "Is that an invitation?"

"Maybe." Shea's fingers traced patterns on his chest. "Though I seem to remember someone promising to show me every room in the mansion properly."

"Every room, huh?" His eyes darkened with desire. "That could take all night."

"Good thing we have the place to ourselves then." Shea bit her lip, enjoying the way his gaze followed the movement. "No need to keep quiet."

Achilles groaned softly, pressing his forehead against hers. "You're going to be the death of me, you know that?"

"But what a way to go." She grinned, pulling him into her room by his shirt.