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For the first time, they look at one another.

Good.

They're learning.

I hear Selena's voice in the mindlink.

"Holy shit."

"Language, Luna."

"You have claws and fangs and you're lecturing me about language?"

One rogue charges.

I move.

He goes down.

Six.

Another comes from behind him, trying to use the falling body to hide his approach.

Smart.

Not smart enough.

I drop low.

My wolflike legs propel me across the grass beneath his reach. My claws flash as I pass. His legs buckle beneath him.

Before he can recover, I turn with the movement and finish it.

Seven.

I rise already moving.

Two more attack together.

I give ground.

One step.

Two.

They think I'm retreating.

I'm not.

I'm bringing them exactly where I want them.

The first lunges.

I vanish from his reach.

He turns.

Too slowly.