Dawn came too quickly.
I woke to the sound of hammering- wolves reinforcing the main buildings, boarding up windows, creating defensive positions. Duke was already gone, his side of the bed cold. Through our bond, I felt him everywhere at once: checking perimeters, organizing teams, radiating that Alpha command that made wolves stand straighter.
I dressed quickly, ignoring the way my back ached and my belly felt heavy. There was too much to do to focus on discomfort.
In the main hall, Victoria was organizing supplies with military precision. Maps covered every surface, marked with defensive positions and evacuation routes.
"The Council transport leaves in an hour," she said without looking up. "Riley, Dr. Sarah, and I will present the evidence. If we can get an emergency injunction-"
