Ariana was led through the forest, her heart racing with every step. She had never been this far from home before, and the unfamiliar surroundings only added to her growing unease. The alpha, Gabriel, walked beside her, his broad shoulders and confident stride commanding attention. His piercing blue eyes seemed to see right through her.
"You're doing well, Ariana," Gabriel said, his voice low and soothing. "You're almost there."
Ariana nodded, trying to hide her fear. She had never been one for adventure, and the thought of being in a new, unfamiliar place with a group of strangers was not exactly thrilling. But she knew she had no choice. The alpha had been clear: she was coming with him, and there was no argument.