The council chamber felt colder than usual. Mira noticed it immediately as she entered beside Ryker. The stone walls seemed to hold tension the way they held winter air, and the long table at the center of the room was already filled with elders and captains.
Every seat was occupied. That alone told her the meeting was dangerous. Ryker walked forward with steady authority, but Mira felt the tightness in him through the bond. His control remained firm, yet something heavy pressed beneath it, and this was not a normal council gathering.
Elder Carrow stood when they approached.“We begin immediately,” the elder said. “There is no time for delay.”
Ryker did not sit.“Speak,” he said. Carrow nodded toward a tall wolf Mira did not recognize. The stranger stood near the far wall wearing dark gra
