Morning came slowly to the Silverfang fortress. No one spoke loudly. No one laughed. Even the younger wolves moved carefully through the halls, as if sound itself might shatter the fragile tension holding the pack together.
The accusation against Mira had not been spoken formally yet, but everyone knew it existed. Suspicion lived in the walls now, and suspicion spread faster than fire.
Ryker stood alone in the council chamber before the elders arrived. The long stone table felt heavier than usual, as though it carried the weight of generations of war, law, and expectation.
He knew what this meeting would demand, and he also knew what he would refuse.
The door opened. Elder Corvin entered first, leaning on his carved staff. The other elders followed, along with Captain Daren and several
