The council chamber of Montenegro had always felt heavy, but that morning the air carried something different, something that pressed against skin and bone as if the mountains themselves had leaned closer to listen. The long stone table curved like a crescent beneath the high windows and the banners of allied packs hung from iron hooks along the walls, their colors deep and proud, yet every wolf present seemed restless, shifting in their seats as though an unseen current ran beneath the floor.
Raya did not intend to dominate the room. She had come only to listen, to understand the reports from the northern borders and the quiet movements happening beyond their territory. Tanaia stood near the far pillar with her usual calm posture, Jake beside her with parchment and ink, while Derek and J
