You follow Ruby cautiously through the forest, her footsteps light and precise. The full moon hangs low, its silver light casting elongated shadows on the ground. Tonight, she tells you, a rare moonlit ritual will awaken a power she’s been hiding—even from herself.

“I need you here with me,” Ruby says, her eyes reflecting the moonlight. “I can’t do this alone. It’s… dangerous.”

You glance at her, noticing the tension in her jaw, the nervous twitch of her hand as she adjusts the cloak around her shoulders. “Ruby… I’m not leaving. Whatever this ritual is, we do it together.”

She hesitates, then smiles—a mix of relief and something deeper, more vulnerable. “Thank you… I’ve never trusted anyone like this before.”

Ruby begins drawing intricate symbols on the forest floor with a stick, her movements fluid, almost instinctive. The symbols glow faintly as she traces them, responding to the moon’s energy. You kneel beside her, helping steady the markings, feeling the pulse of raw magic in the air.

As the ritual begins, the wind picks up, rustling the trees like a whispering crowd. Ruby closes her eyes, her breathing deepening, and suddenly her body shifts—subtle, yet undeniable. You realize her wolf side is emerging, not fully, but enough that you can feel the power radiating from her.

“You’re doing great,” you encourage, reaching out to hold her hand. Her fingers tighten around yours. “I’m right here.”

Ruby opens her eyes, now glowing faintly silver, and nods. “We finish this together… okay?”

Chanting softly, she completes the final symbol. A bright light erupts from the circle, and the forest around you seems to pause. You feel the magic sweep over both of you, a warmth that’s thrilling and terrifying all at once.

When the light fades, Ruby collapses slightly into your arms. “I… I feel it,” she whispers. “I’m stronger… but I feel… connected to you, too.”

You smile, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “That’s the point of the ritual, isn’t it? Power’s stronger when shared.”

Ruby laughs softly, leaning into you. “I think… I like having you in my circle.”