The messenger arrived at dawn.
A rogue scout. Breathless. Urgent.
"Blake Cameron has issued a decree. He's calling Riley a false queen. Says she's been corrupted. Brainwashed." The scout swallowed. "He's offering amnesty to any wolf who abandons her and returns to his rule."
Riley's jaw clenched. "And?"
"Some are considering it. The new arrivals especially. They're scared."
Riley stood. "Gather everyone. Courtyard. Now."
Within minutes, hundreds of wolves assembled. Faces uncertain. Fearful. Questioning.
Riley climbed onto the platform. Grayson beside her. The fresh mark on her chest visible. Glowing.
"My father calls me corrupted," Riley's voice rang out. "Brainwashed. A false queen. He offers you amnesty if you abandon me."
Murmurs rippled through the crowd.
"He's right to be a
