The idea had started as a murmur in the council circle.
It became real at dawn.
Alden stood at the southern gate, a small pack slung over his shoulder, Rowan at his side, three trained wolves behind them. Not a war party. Not a patrol.
An outreach.
The first official journey beyond their expanded borders not driven by defense, trade, or survival.
This time, they were going to introduce themselves.
Caleb watched from the steps of the Alpha quarters, arms crossed, expression unreadable.
Lila stood beside him, hands folded loosely.
“They’re ready,” she said quietly.
Caleb nodded. “I know.”
That didn’t make watching easier.
Rowan adjusted the strap on his pack. “Still time to panic.”
Alden smirked. “Already did that at sunrise.”
“Good,” Rowan replied. “Wouldn’t want you getting ov
