The council chamber erupted into chaos after the scout’s announcement. Voices rose, some angry, some fearful, all layering on top of one another like crashing waves. Lyra could feel the weight of their stares drilling into her skin. Even now, with the news of Shadow Fang wolves moving at the border, suspicion clung to her like a second skin. Her throat was tight, but Aelira’s low, steady presence inside her steadied the quiver in her heart. Stand tall, her wolf murmured. This storm is not yours to cower from.
Lucian rose from his chair with an aura that silenced the chamber. His presence pressed against every wolf in the room, heavy and commanding, until even Mary dropped her gaze. “Enough,” his voice boomed, quiet but laced with power. “The council ends here. Warriors—assemble at the eas
