POV: Lucian
The journey north takes three days. Jasper grows weaker with each mile. The coughing fits come more frequently. More blood. More of those silver flecks that shouldn't exist.
Lucian helps his blood father walk when the weakness gets too bad. Doesn't speak about it. Just offers his shoulder and keeps moving.
They reach the Direwilds at dusk on the third day. The mountains rise before them, jagged and imposing. Lucian's wolf stirs, sensing home. Sensing family.
Sensing Ronan's fury waiting ahead.
Guards spot them at the outer boundary. Direwolves in human form, armed with spears and knives. Their eyes widen when they recognize Lucian.
Then narrow with suspicion when they see Jasper.
"Who's that?" The lead guard, Kael, steps forward. His hand rests on his weapon.
"My blood
