Chapter 40: Rising Storm

Lyra's POV

The necklace pulses against my skin, a constant reminder of the power now coursing through my veins. Ever since I put it on, it's as if a veil has been lifted from my eyes. Memories, ancient and powerful, flood my mind at the most unexpected moments. But with this newfound clarity comes a crushing weight of responsibility.

I'm lost in thought as I make my way through the pack house, only to be jolted back to reality by the sound of breaking glass. Xander's voice, uncharacteristically slurred, drifts from his study.

"I don't understand," he's saying, frustration evident in his tone. "How could I not remember?"

Curiosity gets the better of me, and I edge closer to the partially open door. What I see makes my blood run cold. Xander is slumped in his chair, an empty vial clutched in his hand. Across from him stands Zara, the pack healer, her expression grim.

"It was a powerful sedative, Alpha," Zara explains. "Mixed with something to lower inhibitions. Whoever did this..."

"It