Caelan POV:
The clearing lies on a stretch of neutral ground chosen before wolves turned borders into arguments.
The wind moves through the tall pines in slow currents, disturbing the upper branches but leaving the clearing itself almost undisturbed and the open ground ahead is simple.
Packed earth worn smooth by seasons of passing wolves spreads between the trees, stones half-buried in moss and roots. There are no raised platforms, no symbols, no attempt to turn the space into something ceremonial. It's just land, and the understanding that what is said here carries meaning.
We approach without rushing as we had discussed in my office. I walk at the front as Vaelor shifts beneath my skin, restless but calm. Inside me, he recognises the significance of this gathering and carries no dou
