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Night in the Ashfang Stronghold was never truly quiet.
The stone walls hummed faintly with the heartbeat of the wolves within, the constant low thrum of patrols, the sound of distant footsteps. But tonight, something felt different—like the air was holding its breath.
Kael stood on the highest balcony, his black cloak snapping in the wind, eyes scanning the dark horizon. His wolf senses stretched as far as they could, seeking, tasting the wind for any trace of movement. Nothing. And yet the unease wouldn’t leave him.
He didn’t hear Aria until she was almost beside him. “You’re awake too,” she said softly.
Kael didn’t turn. “Couldn’t sleep.”
“Same,” she admitted, hugging herself against the chill. “It’s like… something’s pressing on my chest. Not pain, just—pressure. Like I’m bein
