Far from Black Hollow, where the wind carried peace and the river softened every sound, the world was not quiet.
It never had been.
Inside Shadow Fang territory, silence meant danger.
And danger meant control.
Kael Draven stood at the edge of a stone balcony carved into the mountain face, overlooking the dark spread of his territory below. The forest stretched endlessly—thick, untamed, and obedient only to fear.
Behind him, footsteps stopped.
No announcement.
No hesitation.
Only certainty.
“You called for me, Alpha.”
Kael didn’t turn immediately.
“I didn’t call,” he said quietly.
A pause.
Then:
“I was informed.”
The warrior behind him stiffened slightly.
Kael finally turned his head just enough for silver eyes to catch the torchlight.
“Speak.”
The man lowered his gaze imm
