The summons arrived before noon. Mira stood at the edge of the training yard while warriors moved through coordinated drills under the pale winter sun.
Their movements were sharper than usual, and their discipline carried a new intensity. Word had spread quickly about the night she had spent in the infirmary, and the pack’s behavior toward her had shifted in a way that no decree could have forced.
Respect had replaced suspicion, that change had not gone unnoticed. A young courier approached her cautiously and bowed his head.
“The Elders request your presence in the council chamber,” he said carefully.
Mira held his gaze long enough to ensure he did not mistake the word request for invitation.
“Where is Alpha Ryker?” she asked.
“He has already been called,” the courier replied.
Mira
