The sun rose over the Crescent Pack territory the next morning, but the light did nothing to warm the desolate atmosphere. The rain had stopped, leaving behind a thick, suffocating fog that clung to the pine trees.
I stood by the armored SUV, the heavy black cloak of the Lycan Queen draped over my shoulders. The silver clasp at my throat felt like a physical anchor, a reminder of the power I now possessed.
The entire Crescent Pack was gathered in the muddy square, kneeling in absolute silence. They weren't just bowing out of fear of the King anymore; they were bowing to the White Wolf. To me. The runt they had mocked and forced into servitude was now their highest authority.
Darius stood beside me, his massive hand resting gently on the small of my back. He didn't speak. He simply let m
